Phrasal Verb - Letting On
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.Definition
To 'let on' means to reveal a secret, disclose confidential information, or give a hint about something that was intended to be kept hidden or unknown. It often implies doing so unintentionally, carelessly, or without fully realizing the implications, rather than a deliberate act of betrayal. It can also mean to pretend or feign, especially when someone claims not to know something but actually does, but is giving subtle clues. The phrasal verb suggests a subtle or indirect disclosure, a slip of the tongue, or an inadvertent signal that betrays hidden knowledge or feelings, often leading to someone's surprise or the unraveling of a carefully guarded piece of information.
Examples
| No. | Example |
|---|---|
| 1 | She almost let on about the surprise party, but caught herself just in time. |
| 2 | Don't let on to anyone that I'm leaving the company next month; it's still confidential. |
| 3 | He tried not to let on that he was nervous, but his trembling hands gave him away. |
| 4 | I didn't mean to let on, but I accidentally mentioned their secret engagement during dinner. |
| 5 | She let on that she knew more than she was telling by her knowing smile and hushed tone. |
| 6 | The children were told not to let on about the new puppy until Christmas morning. |
| 7 | He pretended not to know anything about the prank, but his smirk let on that he was fully aware. |
| 8 | If you let on about my plans to the boss, I'll never forgive you; it could jeopardize everything. |
| 9 | The witness let on that there was more to the story than initially reported, hinting at a cover-up. |
| 10 | Be careful not to let on anything to the new interns; this project is top-secret for now. |
