Understanding the difference between lets and let’s is crucial for clear and effective English communication. These two words are often confused because they sound the same, but they have distinct meanings and grammatical roles. Let’s is a contraction of “let us,” used to make suggestions, while lets is the third-person singular form of the verb “let,” meaning to allow or permit. When discussing lets vs let’s, learning their correct usage will help you avoid mistakes in writing and speech. Enhance your English skills by exploring more confusing words in our Confused Words section. Understanding the distinction between lets vs let’s will improve your clarity.
Meanings of Lets and Let’s
Let’s
A contraction of “let us,” used to suggest or propose an action.
- Let’s go to the park this evening. For example, in lets vs let’s, “let’s go” is suggesting an action.
Lets
The third-person singular form of “let,” meaning to allow or permit. Within lets vs let’s distinctions, “lets” carries the substantial role of permission.
- She lets her younger brother use her phone. Here, in lets vs let’s, “lets” means she allows her brother.
Differences Between Lets and Let’s
| Feature | Let’s (with apostrophe) | Lets (without apostrophe) |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Contraction of “let us” | Third-person singular form of “let” |
| Function | Used to make suggestions or proposals | Means “allows” or “permits” |
| Example | Let’s meet at the café. | He lets his children watch TV before bed. |
Usage of Let’s
Making Suggestions
Used to propose an action that includes the speaker and others.
- Let’s prepare for the exam together. This sentence suggests that the speaker and others should study together.
Encouragement or Motivation
Used to inspire or motivate a group.
- Let’s do our best in the competition! The speaker is motivating everyone to give their best effort.
Usage of Lets
Granting Permission
Indicates that someone is allowed to do something.
- The teacher lets the students use dictionaries during exams. This means the teacher permits the students to use dictionaries.
Allowing Something to Happen
Describes enabling or permitting an action in contexts like lets vs let’s usage.
- The app lets users edit photos easily. This means the app provides users with the ability to edit photos.
Formal and Informal Uses of Let’s and Lets
Formal Usage
“Let’s” is slightly informal, but “let us” is preferred in formal writing.
- Formal: Let us begin the presentation.
- Informal: Let’s start the presentation.
Formal Usage of Lets
No major distinction; “lets” is used in all contexts where permission is granted. Even in lets vs let’s scenarios, lets remains unchanged in formality.
Summary
“Let’s” is a contraction of “let us,” used for making suggestions or proposals. “Lets” is the third-person singular form of “let,” meaning to allow or permit. Understanding their differences in lets vs let’s will help improve your English writing and speaking skills.
FAQs
If you can replace the word with “let us,” then use “let’s.” Otherwise, use “lets.”
“Let’s” is considered informal. In formal writing, “let us” is preferred.
Both words have the same pronunciation, which is why they are often confused in writing.
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