let somebody/something go

let go

1. To stop physically holding on to someone or something. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "let" and "go." If you let go of the ledge, you'll fall! The baby refused to let go of the rattle. He let the rock go, and it was a long time before we heard it hit the bottom.2. To fire or dismiss an employee. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "let" and "go." I'm worried that they'll let me go once this special project is over. I heard they're going to let go a lot of employees involved in the scandal.3. To release someone or something from custody. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "let" and "go." We did bring him in for questioning, but we had nothing to charge him with, so we had to let him go. What time did you let go the prisoner?4. To stop pursuing a particular desire or attempting to maintain a particular situation and accept things as they are. In this usage, the phrase is often "let it go." He's never going to clean the kitchen as diligently as you would—just let it go. It's been 10 years, Ken. I think it's time for you to let go and move on.5. To relax and not focus on one's responsibilities or stresses. I think I just need a weekend where I can let go for a while and not worry about what's going on at work.6. To make noise in a sudden, fierce, and/or uncontrolled manner. The trapped wolf let go with a bone-chilling howl.7. To launch into a verbal attack or reprimand. I don't know what made him so angry, but he suddenly let go with a string of expletives.See also: go, let

Let it go.

Forget it.; Stop worrying about it. Don't get so angry about it. Let it go. Let it go. Stop fretting.See also: go, let

let it go (or pass)

choose not to react to an action or remark.See also: go, let

let it ˈgo (at ˈthat)

say or do nothing more about something: I could have disagreed with him, but I let it go. I don’t like arguments. ♢ The police spoke firmly to the boy about the damage and then let it go at that.See also: go, let

ˌlet somebody ˈgo


1 allow somebody to be free: Will they let the hostages go?
2 make somebody have to leave their job: They’re having to let 100 employees go because of falling profits.See also: go, let, somebody

ˌlet somebody/something ˈgo

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ˌlet ˈgo (of somebody/something)


1 stop holding somebody/something: Let go of me! You’re hurting! ♢ Don’t let go of my hand, or you’ll get lost.
2 give up an idea or an attitude, or control of something: It’s time to let the past go. ♢ Some people find it hard to let go of their inhibitions.See also: go, let, somebody, something