1 A2 neutral
To allow a person or vehicle to pass through a controlled point such as a gate, border, or security barrier.
"The border guard checked our passports and then let us through."
separable
let through
B1 neutral separable transitive
To allow someone or something to pass through a barrier, checkpoint, or obstacle.
In plain English
To allow someone or something to go through a gate, door, or crowd.
What does "let through" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
To allow legislation, a proposal, or a decision to pass through an approval process.
"The committee let the amendment through without much debate."
separable
3 B1 neutral
(Sport) To fail to stop the ball, allowing it to pass into the net or past a defensive line.
"The goalkeeper let the shot through his legs and into the net."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To open a way for something to pass all the way through to the other side.
Actually means
To allow someone or something to go through a gate, door, or crowd.
Usage tip
Often used in contexts involving security, border control, crowds, or legislation passing through parliament. Also used in sports for a goalkeeper or defender allowing a shot through. The object can come between 'let' and 'through'.
Words that pair with "let through"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
border security gate checkpoint bill goal
How to conjugate "let through"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
let through
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lets through
he/she/it
Past simple
let through
yesterday
Past participle
let through
have + pp
-ing form
letting through
continuous
Hear "let through" in the wild
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Other ways to say "let through"
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Keep exploring
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