let on

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Explanation of "Let On"

Definition: The phrase "let on" is a verb that means to reveal or make known information that was previously a secret or not widely known. It often refers to sharing information that someone was not supposed to share.

Usage Instructions

• When to use: Use "let on" when talking about someone revealing a secret or sharing information unexpectedly.
• Form: It is often used in the past tense ("let on") or in the present continuous form ("letting on").

Examples

1. Simple Example:

   • "I didn’t want to let on that I knew about the surprise party."
   • (This means the speaker did not want to reveal that they knew about the surprise party.)

2. Advanced Example:

   • "He let on that he had been working on a new project, but he didn't share any details."
   • (This means he revealed he was working on something new, but kept other details a secret.)

Different Meanings

• Let on can also mean to pretend or act as if something is true when it is not. However, this usage is less common.
  • Example: "She let on that she was fine, but I could tell she was upset."

Synonyms

• Reveal
• Disclose
• Share
• Uncover
• Make known

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• Let on to someone: To reveal a secret to someone.

  • Example: "He let on to me about his plans for the weekend."

• Let on about something: Similar to the above, meaning to disclose information about a particular matter.

  • Example: "Don’t let on about the surprise; we want it to be a secret!"

Word Variants

• Letting on: The present continuous form.
  • Example: "He's letting on more than he should about his personal life."

Summary

"Let on" is a useful phrase in English for talking about revealing secrets or information. Remember to use it when someone shares something they shouldn't, or when someone pretends about something.

Academic

Verb

1. make known to the public information that was previously known only to a few people or that was meant to be kept a secret
   • The auction house would not disclose the price at which the van Gogh had sold
   • The actress won't reveal how old she is
   • bring out the truth
   • he broke the news to her
   • unwrap the evidence in the murder case