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to let off
[phrase form: let]
01
to not punish someone for a wrongdoing, or only give them a light punishment
Transitive: to let off sb with a small punishment | to let off sb for a wrongdoing
Examples
The parent let the child off for breaking a vase, understanding that it was an accident and not a deliberate act of mischief.
02
to cause an explosive weapon to discharge
Transitive: to let off an explosive
Examples
The soldiers let off a barrage of artillery fire during the battle.
03
to allow someone to be excused from a responsibility, obligation, or expectation
Dialect
British
BritishTransitive: to let off sb
Examples
The teacher let the students off early for the day due to the unexpected snowfall.
