The phrase "let slide" means to ignore or forgive something. Despite having only three letters in each word, the spelling of these two words can be tricky for non-native English speakers. The first word "let" is pronounced /lɛt/ with a short "e" sound followed by the "t" sound. The second word "slide" is pronounced /slaɪd/ with a long "i" sound followed by the "d" sound. Remembering the correct spelling and pronunciation of this phrase will help improve communication skills in English.
The phrase "let slide" refers to the act of intentionally overlooking or disregarding a certain action, mistake, or transgression without taking any action or showing disapproval. It entails allowing a particular situation to pass without intervening or holding someone accountable for their actions.
When someone decides to "let slide," they purposefully choose not to respond, criticize, or reprimand an individual for their wrongdoing. It implies a conscious decision to forego confrontation or confrontation and instead passively accept or ignore the situation. This can apply to various scenarios, such as overlooking minor errors, forgiving someone's mistakes, or deviating from established rules or expectations.
The intention behind letting slide can vary depending on the context. It can stem from a desire to maintain harmony, avoid unnecessary conflict, or demonstrate leniency or forgiveness. By choosing to let something slide, individuals may prioritize preserving relationships, fostering a positive atmosphere, or promoting a more relaxed environment.
However, it is important to note that the act of letting slide does not necessarily imply condoning or accepting repeated offenses or major transgressions. It usually pertains to minor issues or instances where the consequences are considered inconsequential or not worth pursuing.
Overall, to let slide means to consciously ignore or overlook an action or mistake without taking any action or displaying disapproval, typically for the sake of preserving harmony or avoiding conflict in a specific situation.
The phrase "let slide" comes from the combination of two individual words, "let" and "slide", each with their own etymology.
1. Let (verb): The word "let" can be traced back to the Old English word "lǣtan", which means "to permit" or "to allow". Its usage and meaning have remained relatively consistent throughout history. Therefore, in the context of "let slide", it retains the sense of permitting or allowing something to happen without interference or objection.
2. Slide (noun/verb): The term "slide" has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old English word "slīdan". It primarily refers to the act of smooth, continuous motion over a surface, often without effort. Over time, "slide" began to be used metaphorically, indicating a figurative decline or lack of action.