vor|lassen
Translation
to let pass, to let go first, to admit, to give precedence
Examples
Er hat die ältere Dame vorgelassen.
He let the elderly lady go first.
Der Türsteher hat ihn nicht vorgelassen.
The bouncer did not admit him.
Grammar Patterns
((sb.)) vorlassen to let ((sb.)) go first/pass At the checkout, I let a woman with a child go first.
Similar Words
Synonyms: den Vortritt lassen (to give way), durchlassen (to let through); Antonyms: zurückhalten (to hold back)
Etymology
From 'vor-' (forward, in front) and 'lassen' (to let, to allow). Literally 'to let forward' or 'to let someone go in front'.
Memory Tips
Picture someone at a door. You 'lassen' (let) them go 'vor' (before/in front of) you.