To Let” – Meaning, Usage, and Examples in English
To Let” – Meaning, Usage, and Examples in English
Blog Article
Introduction
The phrase “To Let” is a common English expression, particularly visible in public spaces, advertisements, and property listings. You may have seen signs on buildings that read “TO LET” and wondered what it means or how it is used in everyday English.
This article explains the meaning of “to let”, its origin, how it's used in both formal and everyday contexts, and the difference between similar phrases like “to rent” or “for lease.”
What Does “To Let” Mean?
In English, “to let” means to allow someone to use something, especially a building or room, in exchange for money. It is mostly used when referring to renting out property.
“To Let” = Available for Rent
So, when you see a sign saying “TO LET”, it means that the owner is offering the place (flat, shop, room, etc.) for rent.
Origin of the Phrase
The verb “let” comes from Old English lētan, meaning to allow or to permit. In the context of real estate, “let” means to allow someone to use property temporarily, in exchange for rent.
Common Usage in Sentences
Here are a few examples of how “to let” is used in English:
-
Formal/Property Use:
-
“A two-bedroom apartment is to let in Dhanmondi.”
-
“Shops to let in the new commercial complex.”
-
-
General Use (allowing):
-
“Please let me explain before you decide.”
-
“He wouldn’t let her go out at night.”
-
Note: In general usage, "let" also means to allow, not always related to rent.
Difference Between "To Let", "To Rent", and "To Lease"
Phrase | Meaning | Usage Area |
---|---|---|
To Let | A place is available to be rented | British English, globally |
For Rent | A place is available for rental | American English |
To Lease | Property is rented with legal contract | Legal/commercial usage |
Examples of "To Let" Signs
-
???? TO LET – 3-bedroom flat, 2nd floor, lift available, BDT 20,000/month
-
???? TO LET – Office space in Gulshan, 1200 sq. ft., contact: 01XXXXXXX
-
????️ TO LET – Small shop in New Market area, suitable for clothing or electronics
Grammar Note: "Let" vs "Rent"
-
If you are the owner, you let the property.
???? “I let my house to a family last month.” -
If you are the tenant, you rent the property.
???? “We rented a flat in Uttara.”
Conclusion
The English phrase “To Let” is a short and simple way of saying “available for rent”, mainly used in property advertisements. It's an important term in both British and international English, especially in the real estate sector.
Report this page