Let Go Or Let Goes is a common source of confusion for many English learners. The two phrases sound very similar and are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings.
In this article, we will explore the differences between Let Go and Let Goes and provide examples of how to use them correctly.
Let Go is the correct phrase among the two. The verb let refers to the action of allowing something to happen or simply not actively restricting the said activity from occurring.
When used in combination with go, the meaning is altered. Let Go means to release something or someone from your grasp or to stop holding onto something emotionally.
On the other hand, Let Goes is not a correct phrase. The verb let is always followed by the base form of the verb, also known as the infinitive. Therefore, it is incorrect to say Let Goes. This is a common mistake made by English learners who are not familiar with the rules of English grammar.
Understanding the Phrases
Let Go
The phrase “let go” is a phrasal verb that means to release or relinquish one’s grip or control on something.
It can be used in various contexts, such as letting go of a physical object, letting go of a person, or letting go of a situation.
Here are some examples of how “let go” can be used:
- She had to let go of her dream of becoming a professional dancer.
- The child let go of the balloon and watched it float away into the sky.
- He had to let go of his anger towards his ex-partner in order to move on.
It is important to note that “let go” is always followed by the word “of” and is never used with a direct object. For example, it is incorrect to say “let go the balloon.”
Let Goes
“Let goes” is not a grammatically correct phrase. The verb “let” is a catenative verb, which means it is always followed by the base form of the next verb. Therefore, the correct form of this phrase would be “let it go” or “let them go.”
Here are some examples of how “let it go” can be used:
- He had to let it go and accept that he didn’t get the job.
- She finally let it go and forgave her friend for betraying her.
It is important to remember that “let it go” is a common phrase used to encourage someone to release their negative emotions or thoughts and move on from a situation. It became popularized by the hit song “Let It Go” from the Disney movie Frozen.
Grammatical Differences
Tense and Subject Agreement
The phrase “let go” is the correct form, while “let goes” is incorrect. The verb “let” refers to the action of allowing something to happen or simply not actively restricting the said activity from occurring. When used in combination with “go,” the meaning is altered.
Additionally, it is important to note that “let go” is in the present tense, while “let went” is in the past tense. The subject agreement is also important, as “let go” is used for second-person singular or plural, while “let goes” would be incorrect in any context.
Common Errors and Misconceptions
One common error is the confusion between “let go” and “let it go.” While “let go” refers to releasing someone or something, “let it go” is a phrase used to encourage someone to stop worrying or being upset about something. Another misconception is that “let go” is only used in the context of employment termination.
While it is true that “let go” can be used in this context, it can also be used in a variety of other situations, such as releasing a grip on something or allowing someone to leave a situation.
In summary, “let go” is the correct phrase, and it is important to use the correct tense and subject agreement.
It is also important to understand the differences between “let go” and “let it go” and the various contexts in which “let go” can be used.
Section 4: Practical Applications
Using Let Go Correctly
When using “let go” in a sentence, it is important to use it correctly. “Let go” is a phrasal verb that means to release or relinquish control over something or someone. In most cases, it is used in the imperative form, such as “let go of the rope” or “let go of your fears.”
It is important to note that “let go” is always followed by an object. For example, “let go of the rope” is correct, while “let go the rope” is not.
When using “let go” in the past tense, the correct form is “let go of,” not “let go.” For example, “He let go of the rope” is correct, while “He let go the rope” is not.
Understanding the Context of Let Goes
When deciding whether to use “let go” or “let goes,” it is important to understand the context of the sentence. “Let go” is the correct form when referring to a single action or command. For example, “Let go of the rope” is correct.
On the other hand, “let goes” is the correct form when referring to multiple actions or commands. For example, “He lets go of the rope and jumps into the water” is correct.
In this case, “let goes” is used because there are two actions being referred to – letting go of the rope and jumping into the water.
It is also important to note that “let goes” is not a commonly used phrase. In most cases, “let go” is the correct form to use.
In conclusion, understanding the correct usage of “let go” and “let goes” is important for effective communication. By using the correct form in the appropriate context, you can ensure that your message is clear and easily understood.
Conclusion
When it comes to the proper use of “let go” and “let goes,” it is important to remember that “let go” is the correct form. “Let goes” is grammatically incorrect and should be avoided in formal writing and speech.
It is also important to remember that “let go” and “let’s go” have completely different meanings. “Let go” directs a person to release their grasp on something, while “let’s go” is a suggestion that we all get up and leave now.
Understanding the correct usage of these phrases can help to avoid confusion and miscommunication in both written and spoken language.
By following the rules of grammar and using the correct form of these phrases, we can ensure that our communication is clear and effective.