Definition

1. Phrasal Verb:
   • To let pass / to let go / to overlook: To intentionally disregard, forgive, or not make an issue of a mistake, offense, or fault. It implies choosing not to react, punish, or dwell on a negative action or event.
   • To allow to pass (literal): To permit someone or something to go past or through a point. (This literal meaning is less common than the figurative one.)

Usage Examples

• Phrasal Verb (figurative):

  • Đó chỉ là lỗi nhỏ, anh nên cho qua. (It was just a small mistake; you should let it go.)
  • Tôi sẽ cho qua lần này, nhưng đừng tái phạm. (I'll overlook it this time, but don't do it again.)
  • Cô ấy đã xin lỗi, vì vậy tôi quyết định cho qua. (She apologized, so I decided to let it pass.)

• Phrasal Verb (literal):

  • Người bảo vệ cho chúng tôi qua cổng. (The guard let us pass through the gate.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is often used in the context of conflict resolution, forgiveness, or maintaining harmony. It suggests a conscious, deliberate choice to release resentment or avoid escalation.
• It can be used in imperative form as advice: "" (Just let it go!)

Variants and Related Words

• Bỏ qua (phrasal verb): A very close synonym meaning to skip, omit, or let slide. Often interchangeable with "cho qua" in figurative use.
  • Anh ấy đã bỏ qua lời lẽ thô lỗ của họ. (He overlooked their rude remarks.)

Synonyms

• Overlook: To ignore or disregard indulgently.
• Forgive: To stop feeling angry or resentful.
• Let slide: To choose not to take action on a mistake.
• Excuse: To pardon or justify a fault.

Related Idioms

• Một điều nhịn, chín điều lành: (Literally: One act of forbearance, nine good outcomes.) This proverb encapsulates the philosophy behind "cho qua," suggesting that letting things go leads to greater good.
  • Cứ cho qua chuyện nhỏ, "một điều nhịn, chín điều lành". (Just let the small things go; "one act of forbearance, nine good outcomes.")