Let someone off the hook
/let ˈsʌmwʌn ɒf ðə hʊk/informalUK · US
What does “Let someone off the hook” mean?
Let someone off the hook means to free someone from blame, punishment or an obligation
Letting someone off the hook gives them a way out. You might forgive a mistake, cancel a task or stop asking a difficult question.
The person does not have to be guilty of anything. They may simply have promised to help and then been told they no longer need to.
When do people say it?
Use it when someone could be held responsible or made to do something, but is excused.
“I forgot to wash up, but my flatmate let me off the hook.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
A fish that gets off a hook escapes being caught. The phrase uses that escape as an image for avoiding responsibility or trouble.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Let someone off the hook” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-09-19