Definition

Verb: 1. To release one's physical hold on something; to stop gripping. This is the primary meaning, referring to the physical act of opening one's hand or relaxing one's grasp to allow something to be free. 2. To relinquish control, possession, or attachment to something abstract. This is a figurative extension, meaning to stop trying to control, keep, or emotionally cling to an idea, person, or situation.

Usage and Examples

• Literal (Physical Release):

  • The child refused to let go of her mother's hand.
  • Please let go of the rope so we can lower the bucket.
  • He finally let go of the branch and dropped into the water below.

• Figurative (Emotional/Abstract Release):

  • It's time to let go of the past and focus on the future.
  • She found it hard to let go of her anger.
  • The company had to let go of five employees due to budget cuts. (Here, it means to release from a job.)

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "Let go of" vs. "Let go": While often interchangeable, "let go of" is typically followed by the object being released (e.g., ). "Let go" can be used intransitively (e.g., ) or in passive constructions (e.g., ).
• Implied Difficulty: The phrase often implies that releasing the grip—whether physical or emotional—requires an effort of will. It suggests a prior state of holding on tightly.
• Instruction and Permission: It is commonly used in imperative form to give an instruction, as in the reference example: ""

Variants and Related Words

• Let go (phrasal verb): The base form, often used without "of" when the object is not specified or in certain idioms.
• Release (verb): A more formal synonym.
• Relinquish (verb): A more formal synonym, often used for abstract concepts like control or a claim.
• Leave go (British English, informal): A less common variant with the same meaning (e.g., ).

Synonyms

• Release
• Relinquish
• Loose/Loosen one's hold on
• Unhand (somewhat archaic or dramatic)
• Give up (figurative)
• Set free (figurative)

Related Phrasal Verbs and Idioms

• Let go (intransitive): To stop holding on; to release one's grip.
  • The rock was slippery, and he had to let go.
• Let oneself go:
  • To allow oneself to become less neat or fit.

    • He's really let himself go since he retired.
  • To behave in a very free and relaxed way.

    • At the party, she finally let herself go and danced all night.

Verb

1. release, as from one's grip
   • Let go of the door handle, please!
   • relinquish your grip on the rope--you won't fall