Lets vs Let’s
What’s the difference between them?
Lets
Meaning:
the third-person singular present tense form of verb let, which means to allow or give permission.
Examples:
1. He rarely lets his younger sister use his computer, as he's protective of his personal files and games.
2. The manager lets employees take short breaks during the busy workday to recharge and relax.
3. The teacher lets the students choose their own topics for the research project to encourage creativity and personal engagement.
Let’s
Meaning:
Let's is a contraction of 'let us' which is used when making a suggestion or giving an invitation.
Examples:
1. 'Let's go for a walk in the park!'
2. 'Let's order pizza for dinner tonight!'
3. 'Let's gather around the campfire and sing some songs!'
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Lets
1. Allows
2. Permits
3. Grants
4. Facilitates
1. Refuses
2. Denies
3. Abstains
4. Rejects
5. Does Not Allow
Let’s
1. We should
2. How about
3. Why don't we
4. Shall we
1. Refuse
2. Turn down
3. Deny
4. Forbid
5. Don't bother
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Lets", "Let’s".
1. 'Let's' is the contraction of 'let us'
2. 'Lets' is the third-person singular form of 'let'
3. If you are using the verb 'let' in a sentence with a subject, the correct spelling is 'lets.'
4. If you are using 'let' to mean 'allow' or 'permit,' the correct spelling is 'let's'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word 'lets' be used?
'Lets' is used as third-person singular present tense of the verb 'let' that means to give a permission.
When is the appropriate context for using the second word 'let’s'?
'Let’s' is used to make a suggestion or offer of help. For example, someone might say 'Let’s go to the park' to suggest that a group of people go to the park together.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
Yes, both 'lets' and 'let’s' share the same pronunciation.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake people make is mixing up when to use 'lets' and when to use 'let’s'. 'Lets' is used to give a permission, while 'let's' is used to make a suggestion.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. ________ go to the beach this weekend and have some fun!
2. My mom always ________ me play outside after I finish my homework.
3. ________ consider all the options before making a decision.
4. The new policy ________ employees take an extra day off each month.
5. ________ aim to complete this project ahead of the deadline.
6. She rarely ________ her kids eat junk food.
1. Lets
Explanation: The sentence is making a suggestion for a fun activity, so the contraction lets (let us) is appropriate.
2. Lets
Explanation: This sentence is referring to the permission given by my mom (third person singular), so the verb lets is correct.
3. Lets
Explanation: The sentence is proposing an action, so lets (let us) is the appropriate choice.
4. Lets
Explanation: This sentence is discussing a policy that allows employees a certain privilege (third person singular form), so lets is the correct choice.
5. Lets
Explanation: This sentence is making a collective suggestion, making lets (let us) the right choice.
6. Lets
Explanation: The sentence speaks of the permission she (third person singular) gives to her kids, so the verb lets is appropriate.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.