let someone off the hook

Release from obligation

To let someone off the hook is to release them from an obligation, blame, or difficult situation.

The image is of a fish freed from the angler's hook.

You might let someone off the hook by not pressing charges, forgiving a debt, or accepting an excuse: I was supposed to work Saturday, but my boss let me off the hook.

The phrase often implies the person deserved consequences they won't face.

forgiveness

pardon

Official release from punishment

grace · compassion · leniency · reprieve · amnesty · reconciliation · forbearance · understanding · tolerance · magnanimity

acquittal

exoneration

Official clearing of blame

dismissal · charges dropped · case dismissed · innocent · verdict · release · freedom · getting off

excuse

exemption

Release from requirement

exception · free pass · out · loophole · get-out clause · justification · alibi · pretext · rationale · mitigation

relief

unburdened

Freed from a load

spared · dodged a bullet · lucky break · reprieve · close call · narrow escape · saved · rescued

Opposites
accountability

let someone off the hookhold accountable

Require someone to justify actions

hold someone's feet to the fire · bring to justice · throw the book at · punish · call to account

pressure/obligation

let someone off the hookhold to account

Demand responsibility for actions

enforce · compel

pressure and obligation

let someone off the hookput the screws on

trap

Family

someone, hooked, unhook, unhooking, unhooked

Familiarity
Top 100,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G