The spelling of the word "lets" may seem straightforward, but when considering its IPA phonetic transcription, it becomes more complex. The word is pronounced /lɛts/, with the "e" and "t" producing a unique sound. The combination of the "l" and "e" sound creates a short vowel sound, while the "t" sound is voiced. This unique combination makes "lets" a distinctive word in English spelling and pronunciation. Its common use in phrases like "let's go" also makes it an essential word in everyday communication.
Lets is a contraction of the word "let us". It is primarily used as a first-person plural imperative, meaning it is a command or request addressed to a group that includes the speaker and the listener. The term indicates that the speaker is proposing or suggesting something for joint action or consideration.
The verb "let" in this context means to allow or permit something to happen. When combined with the pronoun "us", "let us" is used to ask or grant permission, give consent, or propose an action that involves oneself and others. The contraction "lets" simplifies this phrase, making it more convenient and concise in everyday language.
For example, if a person says, "Lets go for a walk," they are suggesting that both themselves and the person they are speaking with should go for a walk together. It not only expresses their desire but also implies that they want the other person to join them.
The use of "lets" is common in informal conversation, particularly among friends, family members, or members of a team or group. It is often used to initiate or plan an activity, emphasize camaraderie, or encourage group participation.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "lets" is derived from the Middle English term "letten", which came from the Old English word "lǣtan". In Old English, "lǣtan" meant to allow, permit, or leave behind. Over time, the meaning of "lǣtan" evolved, and in Middle English, it became "letten", with a similar sense of allowing or permitting. Eventually, "letten" transformed into the modern word "lets", which is still used today to express permission or the act of allowing something.