# let in

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/let-in
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

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

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

## Examples

- Can you let me in?
- The security guard let the visitor in after checking their ID.
- The old man, despite his age, let the stray cat in during the storm.

## Pitfalls

- Not "Let in him" but "Let him in" — the object precedes the particle in separable phrasal verbs; 'let in' is inseparable.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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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.