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let something slide
/lɛt ˈsʌmθɪŋ slaɪd/◆phrasal verb
to ignore or overlook a mistake or rule
The teacher decided to let the late assignment slide this time.
The teacher chose not to penalize students for submitting their work late.
informal
To intentionally ignore or overlook a mistake, rule, or problem, often to avoid conflict or for practical reasons.
After the long meeting, the manager let the small errors in the report slide.
The manager chose not to address minor mistakes in the report to save time.
She usually lets her kids slide on bedtime rules during the holidays.
She allows her children to stay up later than usual during holidays.
This phrase is often used when someone decides not to enforce a rule or correct a mistake to maintain harmony or for convenience.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
This phrase is often used in situations where strict adherence to rules or standards would be impractical or unnecessary.
Gold Rule
Informal Use
This phrase is best used in casual or informal settings, not in formal or professional contexts where strict rules apply.
Word Origin
The phrase comes from the literal idea of something sliding away, suggesting that it is not being stopped or addressed.
Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts, especially when someone decides not to take action against a minor issue to avoid unnecessary conflict or effort.
Word Breakdown
let
to allow or permit
verbsomething
a mistake, rule, or problem
objectslide
to move smoothly without resistance
verbEnglish Dictionary