To Let – 3 Forms: Base, Past, and Past Participle Explained

Introduction

The verb “let” is a common word in English with several meanings, including to allow, to rent out, or to permit. Though it’s a simple word, it has unique grammatical features—especially when used in different tenses.

In this article, we explore the three verb forms of “let”, along with meanings, usage, and examples.

The 3 Forms of “Let”

Verb Form	Word
Base Form	let
Past Simple	let
Past Participle	let

Yes—all three forms are the same!

This makes “let” an irregular verb that doesn’t change across the three main forms, which is unusual in English.

1. Base Form: Let

Meaning:

To allow or permit.
To rent out a property.

Examples:

Please let me go to the party.
They plan to let the apartment next month.
Don’t let the dog out.

2. Past Simple: Let

Meaning:

Used to describe a completed action in the past.

Examples:

She let her children stay up late yesterday.
We let our flat to a new tenant last year.
They let the guest use their car.

3. Past Participle: Let

Usage:

Used in perfect tenses (have/has/had let).

Examples:

He has let the room to a traveler.
I’ve never let anyone borrow my bike before.
They had let the house by the time we arrived.

Common Uses of “Let”

Use Case	Example
Permission	Let me help you.
Suggestion	Let’s go to the park.
Rental	The house was let to a family.
Causative Verb	She let him drive her car.

Phrasal and Idiomatic Uses

To let go – to release or forgive.
Example: He finally let go of the past.
To let someone down – to disappoint.
Example: I won’t let you down.
To let out – to release or make something known.
Example: She let out a scream.
To let in – to allow entry.
Example: Let him in, it’s raining!

Conclusion

The verb “let” is simple in form—let, let, let—but rich in meaning. Whether you’re referring to giving permission, renting a property, or using it in idioms, understanding its grammatical forms and usage helps you communicate more accurately in English.