English grammar can be confusing when you first encounter let vs lets vs let's, especially in everyday videos and comments on YouTube. This guide breaks down each form, explains when to use let, lets, or let's, and shows how native speakers actually use these words in real examples.
By the end, you will know the exact difference between let, lets, and let's so you can watch, write, and speak with more confidence on any grammar topic.
| Form | Type | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| let | Base verb | Allow or give permission | Let the dog out. |
| lets | Third-person singular verb | Allows for one he, she, or it | She lets the cat in. |
| let's | Contraction | Let us | Let's watch the video together. |
| let's | Contraction with apostrophe | Shows possession in old style | The neighbors let's plan (rare, formal). |
Understanding the base verb let
The base form let is used with I, you, we, and they in the present simple. It means to allow, permit, or give opportunity. You often see it in instructions, offers, and suggestions on YouTube and in everyday speech.
When you use let, the main verb that follows stays in the base form, without to. This structure is common in both spoken and written English, especially in casual grammar explanations.
Examples of let in everyday sentences
Let me check the details before replying.
Let them finish their explanation first.
Let us know if the video link does not work.
Third-person singular lets
Use lets with he, she, or it in the present simple. This form follows standard verb agreement rules for third-person subjects. On YouTube, creators often describe habits or rules using lets when talking about one specific person or thing.
Remember that lets also drops the final s in questions and negatives, which can make it look like the base form at first glance.
How lets appears in common contexts
He lets the news play in the background.
She lets her plants water themselves when she travels.
The app lets users edit videos quickly.
The contraction let's for suggestions
Let's is the most common way to suggest an action and stands for let us. You will see it in almost every comment section, tutorial, and call to action on YouTube. It invites the viewer to join the speaker in an activity.
Because let's sounds like a suggestion, it is often used at the beginning of videos, exercises, or steps to guide the audience smoothly through content.
Everyday uses of let's
Let's practice a quick grammar exercise now.
Let's compare these two grammar rules side by side.
Let's watch the next example and pause when you are ready.
Clear examples with let vs lets vs let's
Seeing multiple examples side by side helps you notice patterns quickly. The table below focuses on everyday situations on YouTube and in comments, so you can choose the right form without hesitation.
By matching the subject to the correct form, you will avoid common mistakes and sound more natural when you speak or write.
| Subject | Form to use | Full sentence example | YouTube-style context |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | let | I let the subtitles guide my practice. | Comment: I let the speed normal in this video. |
| you | let | Let the timer run while you speak. | Tip: Let the intro music play fully. |
| he | lets | He lets the captions stay on screen. | Description: He lets viewers replay difficult sections. |
| she | lets | She lets the comments load before answering. | Live stream note: She lets questions pile up for one minute. |
| it | lets | It lets the audio stay clear on mobile. | App review: It lets you download lessons offline. |
| we | let | Let us test this grammar rule together. | Challenge: Let us know which tip helped most. |
| they | let | They let viewers correct mistakes live. | Community highlight: They let fans choose the next topic. |
| anyone / group | let's | Let's review common mistakes now. | Call to action: Let's open the exercise in the next tab. |