# let someone down gently

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/let-someone-down-gently
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To reject or refuse someone in a way that avoids causing hurt or disappointment.

## Examples

- I do not like him, but I want to let him down gently.
- She did not want to go on a second date, so she tried to let him down gently.
- Although the candidate was clearly unqualified for the position, the manager chose to let him down gently by praising his enthusiasm while explaining why they had selected someone else.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.