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1. To let off something (or let something off) is to fire a gun, or make something explode (e.g. bombs or fireworks).
Examples of use:
a) Everyone in our village lets off fireworks at midnight on New Year's Eve.
b) The police let off tear gas to try and control the demonstrators.
c) The soldiers let off their guns in honour of the Queen.
2. To let off somebody (or let somebody off) is to give little or no punishment to someone who has committed a crime or done something wrong. Often used with "with"
Examples of use:
a) Everyone thought he would be sent to prison, but the judge let him off with a £5000 fine.
b) The police let the boys off with a warning.
c) It was her first offence so the judge let her off.
3. To let off somebody (or let somebody off) is to allow someone not to do something they were expecting to do.
British English.
Examples of use:
a) I was supposed to work this weekend, but my boss let me off.
b) Our English teacher has let us off our homework because it is New Year's Eve.
| infinitive | let off |
| present simple | let off and lets off |
| -ing form | letting off |
| past simple | let off |
| past participle | let off |
Will you be letting off any fireworks on New Year's Eve?
Happy New Year to you all. I hope 2012 is a wonderful and happy year for you 
Image © Robbie Biller
About Angela Boothroyd
Can I be let off this one?
Happy New Year!
David Bennett recently posted..Happy New Year!
Oh, very good
Yes, you are excused David.
Happy New Year to you too.
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