Meaning trap

let off

release or fire

to cause something, such as a bomb, gun, or firework, to explode or shoot

phrasal verbB2occasional

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

release or fire

to cause something, such as a bomb, gun, or firework, to explode or shoot

let off (not punish)

Another meaning of 'let off' is 'not punish'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

Someone let off fireworks in the street to celebrate the festival.daily life
During New Year's Eve, people in my country often let off fireworks to welcome the new year.IELTS speaking

Pattern: let off sth

WrongThey let off with fireworks.

RightThey let off fireworks.

'Let off + thing' directly — don't add 'with'.

Patternlet off sth

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff The crowd discharged numerous fireworks at midnight.

Natural They let off fireworks at midnight.

'Let off' is the natural verb for setting off fireworks or a gun. 'Discharged' is formal/technical.

Words that usually travel with it.

Not about excusing someone; this sense is about making something happen, like an explosion.

let off (not punish) — Another meaning of 'let off' is 'not punish'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.