Translation guide
To allow something to drop or descend, either intentionally or unintentionally. Japanese uses different verbs depending on whether the action is deliberate, accidental, or involves releasing a held object.
The speaker intentionally lets go of something, causing it to fall.
The most common verb for deliberately dropping something. It implies the object falls downward.
He dropped the cup (on purpose).
I deliberately let the book fall.
Literally 'release one's hand'. Used when letting go of something you are holding, causing it to fall.
I let go of the rope and it fell.
To release or let go. Often used for releasing a grip, allowing something to fall or move freely.
When I released the bird, it flew away.
The speaker unintentionally lets something fall.
Also used for accidental dropping. Context or adverbs like うっかり (carelessly) clarify the unintentional nature.
I dropped my smartphone and the screen cracked.
Adds a nuance of regret or accident. Often used when the action was unintentional and unfortunate.
To let something fall in a controlled manner, like lowering a rope or letting hair down.
To casually mention or drop a comment.
落とす is for dropping something downward, often with a sense of falling freely. 垂らす is for letting something hang or dangle, like hair or a rope. 下ろす is for lowering something in a controlled way, like blinds or a load.
let hair hang down
lower luggage
Do not translate 'let fall' literally as 落ちさせる or 落とさせる. These forms are grammatical but unnatural for this meaning. Use the verbs provided above.
I accidentally dropped my wallet.
I accidentally dropped the precious vase.
I let a rope down from the window.
ブラインドを下ろして部屋を暗くした。
I let down the blinds and darkened the room.
She let fall a hint about resigning.