The spelling of the phrase "letting fall" is straightforward, with each word being spelled as it is pronounced. The word "letting" is pronounced /ˈlɛtɪŋ/, with the stress on the first syllable and the "t" in the middle pronounced softly as a glottal stop. The word "fall" is pronounced /fɔːl/, with a long "a" sound and no stress on any particular syllable. Together, the phrase "letting fall" means to allow something to drop or be released.
Letting fall refers to the act of intentionally allowing something to drop or descend from a higher position to a lower one. This term primarily denotes the action of releasing or relinquishing control over an object, an action, or a situation causing it to move downwards through the force of gravity.
In its literal sense, letting fall can involve physically dropping an object or allowing it to slip from one's grasp. For instance, one might let fall a pencil from their hand to the ground. In this case, the individual consciously decides to release the grip on the pencil, allowing it to descend freely.
Metaphorically, letting fall can have broader applications beyond physical objects. It can refer to the act of surrendering power or authority, loosening one's hold on emotions or attachments, or choosing to not interfere or intervene in a particular matter. For example, a leader might decide to let fall their control over a project, permitting their subordinates to take charge.
Overall, letting fall involves the conscious intention of allowing something to drop or descend, either physically or metaphorically. It signifies a deliberate action to release control, restraint, or influence, thereby enabling a natural downwards movement or an alteration of the existing state.
The phrase "letting fall" doesn't have a distinct etymology as it is a combination of two words with separate origins:
1. Let: The word "let" comes from Old English "lǣtan" which means "to allow" or "to permit". It can be traced back to Proto-Germanic "lētaną". Over time, the meaning of "let" developed to also include meanings like "to cause" or "to make".
2. Fall: The word "fall" comes from Old English "feallan" which means "to drop" or "to descend". It originated from Proto-Germanic "fallaną".
So, "letting fall" simply means allowing or permitting something to drop or descend.