Let Up – Meaning and Examples

Have you ever been stuck in heavy rain that finally slowed down? Or felt stressed at work—until things got a little easier? In English, we say the rain, stress, or pressure started to let up. This helpful phrase describes when something intense—like weather, pain, criticism, or effort—begins to decrease or ease off.

What Does “Let Up” Mean?

“Let up” means to become less intense, strong, or severe. It’s used for things that are pressing, overwhelming, or constant—like rain, heat, pain, work pressure, or even someone’s anger. Think of it like a heavy hand slowly lifting off your shoulder. The phrase is always about a reduction in force or intensity—not about stopping completely.

When to Use It

Use “let up” in casual or neutral conversations when talking about:
• Weather: “The storm hasn’t let up all day.”
• Emotions or behavior: “She yelled for hours—she wouldn’t let up!”
• Physical sensations: “My headache finally let up by evening.”
• Work or demands: “The deadlines haven’t let up this month.”
It’s common in spoken English and informal writing—great for texts, chats, or storytelling.

Example Sentences

• The rain let up just in time for our walk.
• He kept criticizing me and never let up—not even for a minute.
• If the pain doesn’t let up, call the doctor.
• Work has been nonstop, but it might let up next week.

Mini Dialogue

Tina: “I can’t believe how hard it’s raining!”

Ravi: “Yeah, but it’s starting to let up. Look—the sun’s coming out!”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t use “let up” for things that are calm or mild from the start—it only applies when something intense begins to ease. Also, “let up” is intransitive, so you don’t use it with a direct object.

❌ Don’t say: “The teacher let up the homework.” (You can’t “let up” something directly.)
✅ Do say: “The teacher finally let up on the assignments.” (Use “let up on” for indirect pressure.)
✅ Do say: “The wind hasn’t let up all morning.”

Final Note

Now you can use “let up” to describe relief from anything intense—whether it’s weather, stress, or someone’s endless questions! Keep listening for it in movies, news, or daily talk. Every time you hear it, you’ll understand a little more of real English. You’re doing great!