leave one to own devices

leave (one) to (one's) own devices

To let one rely on oneself, without any help or other interference. I'm going to leave you to your own devices and see what you come up with without my input. It's amazing how some kids can really thrive when you leave them to their own devices, while others will be completely helpless.See also: device, leave, own

leave one to one's own devices

 and leave one to one's own resourcesFig. to make one rely on oneself.—I am sure that she will manage if we leave her to her own devices. I will leave her to her own resources and everything will turn out fine.See also: device, leave, one, own