Introduction:
The English phrase “to let go” can mean several things depending on the context—releasing a physical object, freeing someone emotionally, quitting a job, or moving on from the past. If you’re trying to express “to let go” in Spanish, there are multiple accurate translations, each tied to the situation and tone.
This article will break down the meaning, usage, and Spanish equivalents of "to let go" so you can express it confidently and clearly.
Common Spanish Translations of “To Let Go”
| English Phrase | Spanish Translation | Usage Example |
|---|---|---|
| To let go (release physically) | Soltar | Soltó la cuerda. (He let go of the rope.) |
| To let go (emotionally) | Dejar ir | Debes dejar ir el pasado. (You must let go of the past.) |
| To let go (forgive/move on) | Liberarse / Superar | Se liberó del resentimiento. (She let go of the resentment.) |
| To let go (fire someone) | Despedir a alguien | La empresa tuvo que despedir a varios empleados. (The company had to let go of several employees.) |
| To let go (give up control) | Ceder / Dejar el control | A veces necesitas ceder el control. (Sometimes you need to let go of control.) |
Explaining by Context
Letting Go of an Object
English: He let go of the handle.
Spanish: Soltó el mango.
Letting Go Emotionally
English: She finally let go of the anger.
Spanish: Finalmente dejó ir la ira.
Letting Go of a Person
English: It’s time to let him go.
Spanish: Es hora de dejarlo ir.
Letting Go in a Job Setting
English: They had to let go of five workers.
Spanish: Tuvieron que despedir a cinco trabajadores.
Popular Phrases with “Let Go” in Spanish
Let it go! – ¡Déjalo ir! / ¡Suéltalo!
Let go of me! – ¡Suéltame!
She can’t let go of the past. – No puede dejar ir el pasado.
I need to let go and move on. – Necesito dejar ir y seguir adelante.
Cultural Tip:
The phrase "let go" is often used in motivational quotes, self-help books, and emotional conversations. In Spanish-speaking cultures, “dejar ir” and “liberarse” are common in those same spaces.
Example quote:
Related Vocabulary
Soltar – To release
Dejar ir – To let go (emotionally)
Despedir – To fire (someone)
Perdonar – To forgive
Ceder – To give up (control or power)
Olvidar – To forget
Conclusion:
“To let go” in Spanish isn’t just one phrase—it depends on what you’re letting go of. Whether it’s a rope, a relationship, a job, or a memory, choosing the right translation like “soltar,” “dejar ir,” or “despedir” ensures your message is clear and culturally appropriate.
Now you can confidently use "let go" in Spanish conversations, whether you're writing, speaking, or translating.