The phrase "let on like" is a common idiom in English meaning to pretend or feign something. The spelling of "let on" is relatively straightforward, with the short e sound in "let" and the long o sound in "on". The word "like" is pronounced with a long i sound, which is represented in IPA phonetic transcription as /laɪk/. Together, the phrase is pronounced as /let ɒn laɪk/. Its origin can be traced back to the 16th century and is still in regular use today.
"Let on like" is a phrase that is often used in informal or colloquial conversations, particularly in American English. It means to pretend or feign something, typically emotions, knowledge, or understanding. When someone is "letting on like," they are creating an illusion or putting on an act to deceive others or manipulate a situation.
This phrase is commonly employed when someone is trying to hide their true feelings or thoughts by acting as though they feel or know something different. For example, if someone is upset but pretends to be content or happy, they might be said to be "letting on like" they are fine. Similarly, if someone is unaware of a certain fact but acts as though they know all about it, they are "letting on like" they are knowledgeable on the subject.
The phrase can also imply an intention to mislead or trick others intentionally. It suggests that the person "letting on like" is consciously behaving in a way that is inconsistent with reality or their true state of mind.
In summary, "let on like" is an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of pretending, feigning, or putting on an act to deceive or manipulate others. It signifies the deliberate manifestation of emotions, knowledge, or understanding that is contrary to one's genuine feelings or awareness.