ENGLISH
REFERENCE

let in

phrasal verb.
B1 Intermediate Oxford General-service
Definition

phrasal verb. to allow someone or something to enter a place or situation.

phrasal verb. to permit the entry of a person or object into a space; transitive phrasal verb with the particle 'in' indicating direction or access.


SIMPLE

Can you let me in?

CONTEXTUAL

The security guard let the visitor in after checking their ID.

COMPLEX

The old man, despite his age, let the stray cat in during the storm.

Particles
in
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
let + object + in
Usage

takes a direct object — the person or thing being allowed entry.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'let out' (to allow exit) and note that 'let in' is inseparable — the object must come before the particle.

Pitfall

Let in himLet him inthe object precedes the particle in separable phrasal verbs; 'let in' is inseparable.

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