Let-them vs. Let-they: What's the Difference?
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Always use object pronouns (them, him, me) after 'let' because 'let' is a verb that requires an object to receive the action.
- Use 'them' not 'they' after let: 'Let them eat.' (Correct) vs 'Let they eat.' (Incorrect)
- The verb following the object must be in the base form: 'Let them go' (not 'to go').
- This applies to all pronouns: use me, us, him, her, and them after the word let.
Overview
The distinction between let them and let they is a fundamental concept in English grammar, directly related to the proper use of pronouns. While let them is always grammatically correct and widely used, let they is consistently incorrect in standard modern English. Understanding this difference is crucial for clear and natural communication, as it hinges on identifying the correct form of pronouns based on their function in a sentence.
The core principle at play here is the case of pronouns: whether a pronoun is in the subjective case (performing an action) or the objective case (receiving an action or appearing after a preposition). The verb let means "to allow" or "to permit." As a transitive verb, let always requires an object—the person or thing that is being allowed or permitted to do something. Consequently, any pronoun immediately following let must be an object pronoun.
Consider the sentence: The manager should let them finish the project. Here, the manager is the subject performing the action of letting. Them is the object pronoun, representing the individuals who are receiving the permission to finish the project. They are not performing the action of letting; rather, they are the ones affected by it.
Using they in this position would be a grammatical error because they is a subject pronoun, reserved for performing the action of a verb.
| Case | Subject Pronoun | Object Pronoun |
|:-----------|:----------------|:---------------|
| First Person | I | me |
| Second Person| you | you |
| Third Person | he | him |
| | she | her |
| | it | it |
| | we | us |
| | they | them |
This table illustrates why let them, let him, let her, let us, and let me are correct, while let they, let he, let she, let we, and let I are not. The verb let dictates the need for an object pronoun.
How This Grammar Works
let them construction, it's essential to understand the roles of subjects, verbs, and objects in English sentences. The verb let is a causative verb, meaning it indicates that one person or thing causes or allows another person or thing to do something. Specifically, let falls into a category of verbs that take a particular structure: verb + object + bare infinitive.to (e.g., go, speak, see). The object is always in the objective case when it is a pronoun. This is a non-negotiable rule of English syntax.Let them try the new software, let is the main verb, them is the object receiving permission, and try is the bare infinitive indicating the action permitted.- Subject: (often implied
youin commands, or a specific noun/pronoun) – This is the one granting permission. - Verb
let: The action of permitting. - Object: An object pronoun (
me,you,him,her,it,us,them) or a noun phrase – This is the one receiving permission. - Bare Infinitive: The action that is being permitted (e.g.,
go,sleep,decide).
The parents let their children stay up late, their children is the noun phrase functioning as the object. If we replace their children with a pronoun, it must be the object pronoun them: The parents let them stay up late. You cannot say The parents let they stay up late because they is a subject pronoun, and stay up late is the action they perform, not the action let performs upon them directly.let. It's not performing the action of letting; instead, it is the entity being let. This is analogous to other transitive verbs: I saw him (not I saw he), She taught us (not She taught we).let operates under the same fundamental principle regarding pronoun case.to (e.g., I want to go, They need to eat). However, certain causative verbs like let, make, have (in the sense of cause), and perception verbs like see, hear, feel are followed by an object and then a bare infinitive.The coach made them train harder.(Notto train)I heard her sing beautifully.(Notto sing)
let, solidifying why let them do something is the correct and only form.Formation Pattern
let is remarkably consistent across various contexts and does not change with the tense of let itself (which is an irregular verb with identical past tense and past participle forms: let, let, let). The pattern is rigidly defined as:
[Subject (optional)] + let + Object Pronoun / Noun Phrase + Bare Infinitive
let: This is the verb of permission.
Object Pronoun or Noun Phrase: This element specifies who or what is being given permission. If it's a pronoun, it must be an object pronoun (me, you, him, her, it, us, them). If it's a noun phrase, it can be singular or plural (e.g., the children, my friend, the team).
Bare Infinitive: This is the base form of the verb describing the action that the object is permitted to perform. It never includes to.
let | let | let | let | let |
me | him | us | them |
know | explain | help | decide |
Let me know. | She let him explain. | They will let us help. | Please let them decide. |
let | let | let | let |
the cat | the students | your creativity |
outside | choose | flow |\
Let the cat outside. | The teacher let the students choose. | Let your creativity flow. |
you is often implied. Let them pass. (Meaning: You let them pass.) Let's consider all options. (Let's is a contraction of let us.)
My parents let me travel alone. The security guard let us through.
do not or don't before let for prohibition, or not before the bare infinitive for a specific denial. Don't let them leave. Let them not worry. (This second form is less common in modern casual speech).
let + object pronoun/noun + bare infinitive, you will reliably form correct sentences.
When To Use It
let them (and its variations with other object pronouns) is highly versatile and used in a wide range of situations to express permission, non-interference, or suggestions. Its usage extends from formal contexts to casual conversations, reflecting its fundamental role in daily English communication.- 1Granting Permission or Authorization: This is the most direct and common use. You are explicitly allowing someone or something to do an action.
The manager said, "Let them use the conference room for their meeting."(Granting authorization for use)My parents finally let me go to the concert with my friends.(Allowing participation)If the children finish their homework, we'll let them watch TV.(Conditional permission)
- 1Expressing Non-Interference or Acceptance: Often,
let themis used to suggest that one should not interfere with someone else's actions, choices, or a natural process. It implies acceptance of a situation.
They want to handle the negotiation themselves; let them.(Suggestion to not intervene)The team is experimenting with a new approach; let them find their own way.(Allowing for self-direction and learning)Sometimes, it's best to just let things happen naturally.(Accepting the course of events)
- 1Making Suggestions (specifically with
let us/let's): The contractionlet'sis incredibly common for making suggestions that include the speaker and the listener(s). Whilelet themis about others,let'sis about us.
It's getting late, let's go home.(Suggestion for collective action)Let's analyze the data before making a decision.(Proposing a shared task)If you're unsure, let's ask the professor.(Suggesting a course of action together)
- 1In Impersonal or General Statements:
Themcan sometimes refer to people in general, or to an unspecified group, often in proverbs, sayings, or when discussing general human behavior.
If people want to spread rumors, just let them.(Impersonal acceptance of a general behavior)A common saying is, "Let them talk, as long as they are talking about you."(General advice about dealing with criticism)Sometimes you just have to let the critics criticize.(Allowing others to have their opinions)
- 1With Reflexive Pronouns: While less common,
letcan be followed by a reflexive pronoun when the object is the same as the subject, often to express allowing oneself or others freedom. This is slightly more advanced but demonstrates the rule's flexibility.
Let yourself relax after a long day.(Allow yourself to unwind)We should let ourselves be creative more often.(Encouraging self-expression)
let them correctly showcases your understanding of English pronoun cases and verb structures, allowing for nuanced and precise communication.Common Mistakes
let constructions. Recognizing and understanding the underlying grammatical reasons for these errors is the first step toward correcting them.- 1Using a Subject Pronoun After
let: This is the most fundamental error and the very reason this rule exists. As established,letrequires an object, and therefore an object pronoun. Using a subject pronoun likethey,he,she,we, orIafterletcreates a grammatical mismatch.
- Incorrect:
The teacher decided to let they stay after class. - Correct:
The teacher decided to let them stay after class. - Why it's wrong:
theyis a subject pronoun. It should perform the action, not receive it.Themcorrectly functions as the object oflet, indicating who received the permission.
- 1Adding
toBefore the Bare Infinitive: Many verbs in English are followed by the infinitive withto(e.g.,I want to study,She needs to eat). However,letis one of the specific causative verbs that takes a bare infinitive (the base form of the verb withoutto). This is a common point of confusion.
- Incorrect:
Please let them to finish their work before the deadline. - Correct:
Please let them finish their work before the deadline. - Why it's wrong:
letbelongs to a group of verbs (let,make,have(causative),see,hear,feel) that omittobefore the infinitive when used in this structure. Contrasting this with a similar verb likeallowcan be helpful:allow them to finishvs.let them finish.
- 1Confusing
Let'swithLet them:Let'sis a contraction oflet us, and it's exclusively used for making a suggestion that includes the speaker. It's a call for collective action.Let them, on the other hand, grants permission or suggests non-interference for a group other than the speaker and listener.
- Incorrect:
Let's them go to the cinema. - Correct (Permission for others):
Let them go to the cinema. - Correct (Suggestion for us):
Let's go to the cinema. - Why it's wrong:
Let'salready containsus(an object pronoun). You cannot followLet'swith another object pronoun likethem, as it creates a redundant and grammatically illogical structure.
- 1Misinterpreting
let them bevs.leave them alone: While seemingly similar, these phrases carry distinct nuances.Let them besuggests non-interference with someone's current state or actions, allowing them to continue undisturbed.Leave them aloneimplies a more active distancing, often to stop bothering someone or to physically depart from them.
The children are concentrating on their drawing; let them be.(Don't interrupt their activity.)He seems very upset; you should leave him alone for a while.(Give him space and stop interacting.)- Why it's wrong: Using them interchangeably can lead to subtle miscommunication about the desired level and type of non-engagement.
- 1Overgeneralizing the Rule: While
letstrictly follows theobject pronoun + bare infinitiverule, not all verbs of permission or causation behave this way. Learners sometimes incorrectly apply this rule to verbs likepermitorallow.
- Incorrect:
The school permitted them leave early. - Correct:
The school permitted them to leave early.(OrThe school allowed them to leave early.) - Why it's wrong:
Permitandallowtypically take an object followed by an infinitive withto. Recognizing which verbs take which structure is key to avoiding this error.
let + object + bare infinitive pattern, and being aware of these common pitfalls, you can significantly improve your accuracy and fluency.Real Conversations
To truly master let them, observe how native speakers deploy it in everyday interactions. The context often clarifies the nuance of permission, suggestion, or non-interference.
Scenario 1
> Friend A: The kids want to build a fort in the living room. Should I tell them no?
> Friend B: Nah, let them. It's good for their imagination, and we can clean up later.
- Analysis: Here, let them is used informally to grant permission and express a relaxed attitude towards the children's activity, implying non-interference with their fun.
Scenario 2
> Manager: I'm not sure about Sarah and Tom's new marketing proposal. It's quite unconventional.
> Team Lead: I've reviewed it. There's potential. I say, let them present it to the client. We might be surprised by the reaction.
- Analysis: Let them present it functions as a strong suggestion to allow Sarah and Tom the opportunity to showcase their idea, indicating a belief in their potential despite the unconventional nature of the proposal.
Scenario 3
> Parent 1: Our son wants to study abroad next year, but I'm worried about him being so far away.
> Parent 2: He's a responsible young man now. It's a great opportunity. We should let him explore the world.
- Analysis: Let him explore conveys a decision to grant permission and encourage independence, suggesting that holding him back would be counterproductive to his growth.
Scenario 4
> Post: Some people are complaining about the new city park design. They think it's too modern.
> Commenter: Honestly, let them complain. Change is always difficult for some. The design is beautiful.
- Analysis: Let them complain is used to dismiss the criticism and advocate for non-interference with others' negative opinions, indicating that their complaints should not prevent the project from moving forward.
These examples demonstrate that let them is not confined to formal or informal settings; its usage is driven by the communicative intent of permission or non-interference, always adhering to the object pronoun + bare infinitive structure.
Quick FAQ
let them vs. let they and related grammatical points.let they ever correct in any context or dialect?In standard modern English, never. Let they is always grammatically incorrect. While you might encounter archaic forms or highly informal, non-standard dialects where such constructions appear, for B1 learners aiming for clear, universally understood English, it should be avoided entirely.
let's? How does it fit into this rule?Let's is a contraction of let us. It means "let us" and is specifically used to make an inclusive suggestion – a proposal that includes both the speaker and the listener(s). The us is already an object pronoun, fitting the rule perfectly. You cannot say Let's them, as it's redundant and incorrect.
Let's eat dinner.(Meaning: I suggest that we eat dinner.)Let us pray.(More formal version ofLet's pray.)
let and verbs like make and have (causative) take a bare infinitive, while allow and permit take a to-infinitive?This is a matter of specific verb complementation patterns in English that have evolved over time. There isn't a simple logical rule that explains why some verbs are followed by a bare infinitive and others by a to-infinitive; it's idiomatic. Let, make, have (causative) are often called "bare infinitive verbs" in this context. You simply need to learn which verbs follow which pattern.
She let him go.She made him go.She had him go.She allowed him to go.She permitted him to go.
let be used without a pronoun or noun phrase immediately after it?Not in the sense of "to permit." When let means "to permit," it always requires an object. You cannot just say I let. It would be grammatically incomplete. However, let is also part of phrasal verbs, where its meaning changes and its grammar differs:
Let out(e.g.,to let out a secret– to reveal;to let out a scream– to emit a sound)Let down(e.g.,to let someone down– to disappoint)Let up(e.g.,The rain finally let up.– to stop or become less intense)
let?Many learners find it helpful to associate the "m" sound in him and them with the objective case. Think of a simple, undeniably correct sentence like Let him go. Your ear probably tells you Let he go sounds very wrong. Extend that same intuitive understanding to them. The m sound often signals the objective case for pronouns in English (him, them, whom).
let them compare to allow them or permit them in terms of formality?Let them is generally neutral in formality. It can be used casually or in more formal contexts without sounding out of place. Allow them and permit them are typically more formal options, especially permit. For example, a legal document might say The contract permits them to use the property, while a friend might say Just let them use it. While the meaning of granting permission is similar, the choice often depends on the desired level of formality and directness.
let in English-speaking societies?The concept of "letting" or allowing freedom and autonomy is often highly valued in many English-speaking cultures. Phrases like Let them choose, Let them express themselves, or Let them learn from their mistakes reflect a cultural inclination towards fostering independence and individual decision-making, particularly in parenting, education, and personal relationships. This often contrasts with cultures where guidance or intervention might be more common, highlighting a subtle cultural value embedded in the grammar.
Using 'Let' with Different Pronouns
| Subject | Verb | Object Pronoun | Base Verb | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
I
|
will let
|
them
|
stay
|
I will let them stay.
|
|
You
|
should let
|
him
|
talk
|
You should let him talk.
|
|
She
|
lets
|
us
|
help
|
She lets us help.
|
|
They
|
don't let
|
her
|
drive
|
They don't let her drive.
|
|
We
|
let
|
them
|
choose
|
We let them choose.
|
|
He
|
let
|
me
|
know
|
He let me know.
|
Common Contractions with Let
| Full Form | Contraction | Usage |
|---|---|---|
|
Let us
|
Let's
|
Suggestions (Let's go!)
|
|
Do not let
|
Don't let
|
Prohibitions (Don't let them in.)
|
|
Will not let
|
Won't let
|
Future refusal (I won't let them.)
|
Meanings
The verb 'let' is a causative verb used to grant permission or allow something to happen. In English grammar, verbs are followed by object pronouns, not subject pronouns.
Permission
To give someone the freedom or consent to do something.
“My parents let them stay out until midnight.”
“Please let them finish their work before you ask questions.”
Suggestions (First Person Plural)
Using 'let us' (usually contracted to 'let's') to propose a joint action.
“Let's (let us) go to the park this afternoon.”
“Let's not tell them about the surprise yet.”
Imperative Commands
A way to issue a command or a wish regarding a third party.
“Let them try it their own way first.”
“Let him speak his mind without interruption.”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Affirmative
|
Let + Object + Verb
|
Let them enter.
|
|
Negative
|
Don't let + Object + Verb
|
Don't let them enter.
|
|
Question
|
Will you let + Object + Verb?
|
Will you let them enter?
|
|
Suggestion
|
Let's + Verb
|
Let's enter.
|
|
Third Person
|
He lets + Object + Verb
|
He lets them enter.
|
|
Past Tense
|
They let + Object + Verb
|
They let them enter yesterday.
|
Formality Spectrum
Please permit them to enter the premises. (Security/Entrance)
Please let them come in. (Security/Entrance)
Let 'em in. (Security/Entrance)
Let 'em slide through. (Security/Entrance)
The 'Let' Connection
Object Pronouns
- them them
- him him
- her her
Actions
- go go
- play play
- speak speak
Subject vs Object after Let
Is it 'they' or 'them'?
Does the word follow 'let'?
Common Phrases
Work
- • Let them know
- • Let them lead
- • Let them finish
Social
- • Let them come
- • Let them stay
- • Let them join
Examples by Level
Let them play.
Let me see.
Let us go.
Don't let them fall.
Please let them finish their dinner.
Will you let them use your car?
My boss lets them work from home.
Let's not let them win the game!
If they are tired, let them take a break.
Why won't you let them explain what happened?
Let them decide for themselves which path to take.
I'll let them know about the meeting tomorrow.
Rather than intervening, we should let them resolve the conflict.
The security guard wouldn't let them pass without ID.
Let them be as creative as they want during the workshop.
It is better to let them fail and learn from it.
To truly understand the culture, one must let them express their traditions freely.
Should we let them proceed with the merger despite the risks?
The legislation was designed to let them operate without excessive oversight.
Let them not be forgotten in the annals of history.
The director's philosophy was to let them inhabit the characters entirely.
One might argue that we should let them navigate the complexities of the market alone.
Let them but try, and they shall find the task more difficult than anticipated.
The sovereign chose to let them remain in exile for the duration of the war.
Easily Confused
Learners often mix these up because in some languages (like German or Dutch), one word covers both meanings.
Both mean permission, but the grammar is different.
Both are causative, but 'let' is permission and 'make' is force.
Common Mistakes
Let they go.
Let them go.
Let he play.
Let him play.
Let she see.
Let her see.
Let we start.
Let's start.
Let them to stay.
Let them stay.
Please let they finish.
Please let them finish.
He lets they work.
He lets them work.
If you let they to do it...
If you let them do it...
Let they who are ready...
Let them who are ready...
Why not let he tries?
Why not let him try?
Let they who have sinned...
Let those who have sinned...
Sentence Patterns
Please let them ___.
I won't let them ___ until ___.
Why don't you let them ___ for a change?
Real World Usage
Let them know we're here.
I let them take ownership of their tasks.
Don't let them overcharge you at the market.
Let them leave the food at the door.
Let them talk, we know the truth.
You should let them try to tie their own shoes.
The 'Me' Test
No 'To' Allowed
Casual Contractions
Polite Alternatives
Smart Tips
Stop and think of the word 'them' as a destination. The permission is traveling TO them.
Check for the word 'to'. Remember: Let = No 'to', Allow = Yes 'to'.
Switch 'let' to 'permit' or 'allow' to sound more professional.
Remember that 'let' is irregular and doesn't change. 'Yesterday I let them' is correct.
Pronunciation
Reduction of 'them'
In casual speech, 'them' is often reduced to ''em'.
Linking 'Let' and 'us'
When saying 'Let's', the 't' and 's' blend into a sharp 'ts' sound.
Imperative Stress
LET them go! (Stress on LET)
Emphasizes the command or permission.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Let THEM in, don't let THEY win! (Wait, that doesn't rhyme—try: Let THEM go, so they can grow!)
Visual Association
Imagine a giant gatekeeper named 'Let'. He only allows people carrying 'Object' bags (labeled me, him, her, them) to pass through his gate to the 'Action' field.
Rhyme
Let them stay, let them play, never use 'they' in this way!
Story
A king wanted to give his people freedom. He stood on his balcony and shouted, 'Let them eat cake!' He didn't say 'Let they eat cake' because he was giving the cake TO them. They were the receivers of his kindness.
Word Web
Challenge
Look around you and find three things you would 'let' someone do. Say them out loud using 'Let them...', 'Let him...', or 'Let her...'.
Cultural Notes
The phrase 'Let them eat cake' is a famous (though likely misattributed) historical quote. It uses the correct 'let them' structure to show a dismissive attitude toward the poor.
In some dialects, 'let' might be used in unique ways for emphasis, but the object pronoun 'them' (or 'em') remains the standard for this construction.
In legal documents, 'let' is rarely used. Instead, 'permit' or 'authorize' are used to avoid the casual tone of 'let'.
From Old English 'lætan', meaning to leave, allow, or leave undone.
Conversation Starters
If you were a teacher, would you let them use phones in class?
When your friends visit your city, where do you let them stay?
How do you feel when parents let them (their children) run around in restaurants?
If you managed a team, would you let them set their own hours?
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
My teacher won't let ___ use calculators during the exam.
If the kids are hungry, let ___ eat the snacks.
Find and fix the mistake:
Please let they finish their presentation.
Allow them to enter the building.
I will let he go to the party.
A: Can the students leave? B: Yes, ___.
Sort these: they, them, him, he, us, we
let / don't / them / forget
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercisesMy teacher won't let ___ use calculators during the exam.
If the kids are hungry, let ___ eat the snacks.
Find and fix the mistake:
Please let they finish their presentation.
Allow them to enter the building.
I will let he go to the party.
A: Can the students leave? B: Yes, ___.
Sort these: they, them, him, he, us, we
let / don't / them / forget
Score: /8
Practice Bank
13 exercisesThey look like they're having a good time. Just let ___ be.
The director will let them ___ the final scene tomorrow.
If our competitors want to use that strategy, let they fail on their own.
Choose the correct sentence:
Arrange these words into a sentence:
Translate into English: 'Déjalos entrar.'
Match the subjects with the correct object form for the verb 'let':
I know you disagree with their plan, but for now, just let it ___.
The contract is clear; you must let them to access the building.
Choose the correct sentence:
Arrange these words into a sentence:
Translate into English: 'Si ellos quieren irse, déjalos.'
Match the sentence parts:
Score: /13
FAQ (8)
In modern standard English, no. It is always `let them`. You might see `let they` in very old poetry or the Bible, but using it today will be seen as a mistake.
`Let's` is simply a contraction of `let us`. We use it for suggestions. In formal writing, you can use `let us`, but in speaking, `let's` is much more common.
Yes, the verb `let` conjugates like any other verb. 'He `lets` them play' or 'She `let` them play' (past tense). The pronoun `them` stays the same.
`Let` is informal and uses a base verb (`let them go`). `Allow` is formal and uses 'to' (`allow them to go`).
It is a correct representation of how native speakers talk informally, but you should write `let them` in any formal or professional document.
Yes! You can say 'Let the water run' or 'Let the paint dry'. If you use a pronoun, it would be 'Let it dry'.
This is a common error even among some native speakers who are trying to sound formal. The correct form is still `let them who...` or more commonly `let those who...`.
In this context, yes. It can also be a noun in tennis (a 'let' serve), but that is a completely different meaning.
Scaffolded Practice
1
2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
Dejar / Permitir
English pronouns always come before the second verb.
Laisser
French word order for pronouns changes in the negative.
Lassen
German word order can be different in subordinate clauses.
〜させる (Saseru)
Japanese grammar is suffix-based, not word-based.
دع (Da') / اجعل (Ij'al)
Pronouns are suffixes in Arabic, not separate words.
让 (ràng)
English requires a case change (they -> them); Chinese does not.
Learning Path
Prerequisites
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