let someone off the hook
idiom
To allow someone to avoid blame or responsibility for something
- 1The teacher let him off the hook for not doing his homework.
- 2She was let off the hook after explaining her situation.
To let someone off the hook means to not make them take the blame or be responsible for something they did wrong. It's like giving them a pass or letting them go without punishment.
Remember, letting someone off the hook does not mean they are completely innocent. It simply means they are not being held accountable for their actions at that moment.
at a hair salon
A Close Shave
Daniel
I was supposed to clean up the mess after the last customer, but I completely forgot.
Karen
Don't worry, the boss saw you were busy and let you off the hook this time.
Daniel
That's a relief! I thought I'd be in trouble for sure.
Karen
Just make sure to remember next time, okay?
at the poolside bar
A Lucky Escape
David
I thought you were going to get in trouble for missing the meeting.
Daniel
Yeah, but the boss let me off the hook because I had a good reason.
David
That's great! You must feel relieved.
Daniel
Absolutely, I was really worried for a moment.
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Similar to "let someone off the hook":
- 1pardon
- 2excuse
- 3absolve