let drive: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘let drive’ mean?

The idiom "let drive" means to give someone free rein to do something or to allow them to act with full force or intensity.

Idiom Explorer

Unleashing Boundless Force

The idiom "let loose" is a related phrase that shares a similar meaning to "let drive." It denotes the act of allowing someone or something to be free, unrestrained, or uncontrolled. In this context, "let loose" can be used interchangeably with "let drive" to convey the idea of giving permission or license for unrestrained action or behavior. For example, one might say, "She let drive and let loose her inner creativity."

Let me drive.

Similarly, the idiom "let fly" can be associated with "let drive" as it also signifies the act of allowing something to be released or unleashed. However, "let fly" specifically emphasizes the action of throwing, shooting, or propelling an object with force and aggression. This idiom can be used to describe situations where someone allows or encourages something to be forcefully released or hurled. For instance, one could say, "He let drive and let fly a powerful punch during the fight."

Another related idiom to "let drive" is "leave someone to their own devices." While this expression may not contain the exact word "let," it conveys a similar idea of allowing someone to act independently, without interference or supervision. It implies giving someone freedom or autonomy to make their own decisions and handle a situation according to their own judgment. An example of using this idiom in relation to "let drive" could be, "He let drive and left me to my own devices to complete the project."

The idiom "let drive" has several interpretations and meanings. It can refer to giving permission or license for forceful and aggressive action, pursuing one's goals with determination, expressing emotions freely, or relinquishing control to someone or something else. The related idioms "let loose," "let fly," and "leave someone to their own devices" share similar connotations of allowing freedom, unrestraint, and independent action. Understanding these idioms and their nuances can enhance one's comprehension of the English language and its idiomatic expressions.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "let drive" can be used in a sentence:

  1. He was so angry that he let drive at the punching bag, hitting it with all his might.
  2. The frustrated golfer let drive and sent the ball sailing over the fairway.
  3. When the car suddenly cut him off, he let drive a string of angry curses.

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