Translation guide
The English phrasal verb "let out" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: releasing something confined, making a sound, revealing information, and adjusting clothing to make it larger.
To allow a person, animal, or substance to go out of a confined space.
General verb meaning 'to let out' or 'to put out'. Used for releasing people, animals, or things.
犬を外に出してください。
Please let the dog out.
He let the cat out into the garden.
Means 'to let escape' or 'to set free', often used when something was captured or confined.
I let the bug I caught go.
Formal word for 'release' or 'set free', used for prisoners, hostages, etc.
The hostages were let out safely.
To produce a sudden sound, such as a scream, sigh, or cry.
Pattern used with sound nouns like 悲鳴 (scream), ため息 (sigh), 声 (voice). Literally 'raise a sound'.
She let out a loud scream.
He let out a deep sigh.
Means 'to let leak out', used for sounds or words that escape unintentionally.
To disclose a secret or information, often unintentionally.
Literally 'leak a secret'. Common phrase for letting out confidential information.
He accidentally let out the secret.
Idiom meaning 'to let slip' or 'to blurt out'. Implies an accidental revelation.
Casual verb meaning 'to disclose' or 'to give away' a secret.
To adjust a garment so it becomes looser or larger.
To dismiss or release from an obligation, such as school or work.
He let out an involuntary laugh.
He let out the truth by slipping up.
Who let out the secret?