let oneself go: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘let oneself go’ mean?
The idiom "let oneself go" means to stop making an effort to maintain one's appearance or behavior, often resulting in a decline or deterioration in one's physical or emotional state.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "let someone go" means to allow someone to leave or end a relationship, usually in a work context, such as firing an employee or ending a romantic relationship.
The idiom "let one's hair down" means to relax or be less formal or restrained, often in a social setting.
The idiom "let one go" means to release gas or fart. It is a slang expression often used to talk about passing gas in a humorous or lighthearted way.
The idiom "let off" means to release or allow someone to escape punishment, usually in a lenient or forgiving manner.
The idiom "let loose" means to allow someone or something to be free or unleashed. It can also mean to relax, have fun, or engage in uninhibited behavior. This expression is often used to describe a release of emotion or energy.
The idiom "let it be" means to leave something alone or to not interfere with a situation. It suggests accepting or allowing things to happen without trying to control or change them.
The idiom "let it all hang out" means to be completely uninhibited or to openly express one's emotions, thoughts, or desires without holding back. It implies being authentic and unrestricted in one's behavior or communication.
The idiom "let go and let God" means to surrender control and trust in a higher power or fate to handle a situation. It suggests releasing worries and anxieties, accepting things that cannot be changed, and having faith in a divine plan or intervention.
The idiom "let fly" means to release or throw something forcefully or with great speed. It can also refer to speaking or expressing oneself freely and without restraint.
The idiom "let down" means to disappoint or fail to fulfill someone's expectations or hopes.
Hidden Freedom
"Let oneself go" is an idiomatic expression commonly used in American English. It refers to the act of abandoning or neglecting one's usual standards, appearance, or behavior. This phrase carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of self-control, discipline, or effort. While it primarily pertains to physical appearance and personal grooming, it can encompass a broader range of behaviors and attitudes. Throughout this article, we will explore the meaning and usage of this idiom, as well as its relation to other idiomatic expressions such as "forget oneself," "let one's hair down," "let someone go," "let one go," and "let loose."
In popular usage, "let oneself go" typically implies a decline in one's appearance or physical upkeep. It could manifest in various ways, such as a decrease in personal hygiene, disregarding fashion trends, or gaining weight. This idiom is often used judgmentally, criticizing the person for failing to maintain their previous standards or meet societal expectations. However, it is essential to approach the usage of this phrase with sensitivity, as it can be hurtful or offensive when directed at someone's personal appearance or behavior.
Furthermore, "let oneself go" can extend beyond physical appearance and describe a decline in other aspects of one's life. It may signify a lack of motivation, surrendering to bad habits, or giving up on previous achievements or ambitions. In these cases, the idiom suggests a relinquishment of control and a resignation to a less desirable state or condition.
The idiom "forget oneself" is related to "let oneself go" in the sense that both expressions imply a departure from one's usual behavior or standards. While "let oneself go" focuses primarily on physical appearance and personal grooming, "forget oneself" encompasses a broader range of behaviors. It suggests a loss of self-control or forgetting one's manners or etiquette. In a social setting, someone who forgets themselves may act inappropriately or deviate from accepted norms.
Similarly, "let one's hair down" is related to "let oneself go" as it denotes the act of relaxing, unwinding, and expressing oneself freely. While "let oneself go" has negative connotations, "let one's hair down" is more positive and suggests a deliberate choice to release inhibitions and enjoy oneself. It conveys a sense of freedom and abandoning societal expectations temporarily.
On the other hand, "let someone go" and "let one go" have distinct meanings from "let oneself go." "Let someone go" refers to the act of allowing someone to depart or be released from a situation or relationship. It signifies granting freedom or permission for someone to leave. Conversely, "let one go" typically refers to forgiving or not holding someone accountable for their mistakes or wrongdoing. It implies releasing resentment or anger towards someone.
Lastly, "let loose" is comparable to "let oneself go" as both phrases convey a sense of abandoning restraint or inhibition. "Let loose" suggests embracing freedom, liberation, and allowing oneself to express without hesitations. It often pertains to being carefree, uninhibited, and enjoying oneself to the fullest.
When using these idioms, it is crucial to consider context and tone. While they can be employed casually or in jest, they may carry judgmental undertones or be hurtful when directed at someone's appearance or behavior. It is essential to be mindful of the impact our words can have on others and to approach these idiomatic expressions with sensitivity.
"let oneself go" is an idiomatic expression that conveys the idea of abandoning one's usual standards, appearance, or behavior. With its negative undertones, the phrase suggests a lack of self-control and effort, primarily focused on physical appearance but potentially encompassing broader aspects of life. Despite its widespread usage, the specific origins and early usage of the idiom remain uncertain. As with any idiomatic expression, it is vital to employ it with caution, considering its potential implications and being mindful of its impact on others.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "let oneself go" can be used in a sentence:
- After his breakup, Mark let himself go and stopped taking care of his appearance.
- Jane used to be a fitness fanatic, but she has really let herself go since she started working long hours.
- Since retiring, Tom has let himself go and gained a significant amount of weight.
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