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let introducing imperatives

English verbs do not have a first-person imperative (used to suggest that I or we should do something), or a third-person imperative (for other people besides the hearer). However, let can be used to construct a type of imperative.

First person plural imperative: let’s …​

We can use let us (formal) or let’s (informal) to make suggestions or to give orders to a group that includes the speaker.

  • Let us pray.
  • Let’s have a drink.
  • OK, let’s all get moving.

Shall we? is used as a question tag ( (see here) in British English for Let’s; let’s can be used as a short answer.

  • ‘Let’s go for a walk, shall we?’ ‘Yes, let’s.’

Negatives are let us not / do not let us (formal); let’s not / don’t let’s (informal).

  • Let us not despair. (formal)
  • Do not let us forget those who came before us. (formal)
  • Let’s not get angry. (informal)
  • Don’t let’s stay up too late tonight. (informal)

First person singular imperative: let me …​

Let me is used to ‘give instructions to oneself’; the expressions Let me see and Let me think are very common.

  • ‘What time shall we leave?’ ‘Let me think. Yes, eight o’clock will be OK.’
  • What’s the best way to Manchester? Let me see – suppose I take the M6.
  • Let me just get my coat and I’ll be with you.

In a very informal style, let’s is often used to mean let me (also (see here).

  • Let’s see. Suppose I take the M6 …

Third-person imperative: let him …​

Let can also introduce a suggestion or order for someone or something else, not the speaker or hearer. This is common in formal and ceremonial language, but informal uses are also possible.

  • Let the prayers begin.
  • Let our enemies understand that we will not hesitate to defend our territory.
  • ‘Your boyfriend’s going out with another girl.’ ‘Let him. I don’t care.’

Note the structure with let + the infinitive of there is.

  • Let there be no doubt in your minds about our intentions.