Pronunciation: [lˈɛts ˈɒf hˈʊk] (IPA) 
The phrase "lets off hook" is spelled as [lɛts ɒf hʊk]. The word "lets" is pronounced as [lɛts], which means to allow or permit. The word "off" is pronounced as [ɒf], which means away from a place or position. The word "hook" is pronounced as [hʊk], which refers to a curved piece of metal or plastic. The phrase "lets off hook" is commonly used to denote someone being released from blame or responsibility.
The phrase "lets off the hook" is an idiomatic expression meaning to release from responsibility, obligation, or punishment, thus alleviating someone of blame, a burden, or a difficult situation.
In a literal sense, when a fish is caught on a hook, being let off the hook means being freed from captivity, with the hook representing a potential threat or danger. In a similar way, "lets off the hook" figuratively suggests the act of freeing someone from a challenging or undesirable situation, removing their predicament or burden. This expression often implies that the person responsible for the situation or who could hold someone accountable for their actions chooses not to do so, allowing the person to avoid the consequences they might have faced.
The phrase can also be used to denote a sense of relief or escape from a difficult or uncomfortable task, obligation, or commitment. For instance, if someone makes plans and then cancels at the last minute, they are letting the other person off the hook. In this sense, "lets off the hook" carries the idea of being excused or exempted from an unpleasant or unwanted responsibility.
To summarize, "lets off the hook" refers to the act of granting someone freedom, releasing them from an obligation, consequence, or undesirable situation, thereby absolving them from blame or responsibility.
