Let off
To fire, explode, or release something that has built up or been loaded (fireworks, a gun, steam)
Common pattern: let off + fireworks/steam (noun)
let off fireworks
let off firecrackers
let off a flare
let off a few rounds
let off steam
They let off fireworks at midnight. ✅ (Correct)
They let the fireworks off at midnight. ✅ (Correct)
To let someone get off a bus, train, taxi, or other vehicle
Common pattern: let + someone + off (+ at + place)
let someone off at the corner
let passengers off
let the kids off
let me off here
The driver let them off at the corner. ✅ (Correct — often separated with a pronoun object)
The driver let off them at the corner. ❌ (Incorrect — pronoun objects must be separated)
To excuse someone from punishment
Common pattern: let + someone + off
let someone off with a warning
let him off easy
let off the hook
get let off
They let her off with just a fine. ✅ (Correct — often separated with a pronoun object)
They let off her with just a fine. ❌ (Incorrect — pronoun objects must be separated)