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What Let’s Do

What let’s do (or "here’s what let’s do," "I'll tell you what let’s do") is a Southern and Appalachian way of introducing a suggestion or plan. It’s a familiar blend of "what we should do" and "let’s do," expressing a friendly sense of leadership or inclusion.

#SouthernSayings   #Appalachia   #DialectandGrammar

Pronunciation

[WHAT let’s DOO]
/wʌt lɛts duː/

Meaning & Usage

- To Propose an Action Together (phrase)

Used to introduce a shared plan
Mamaw:
Here’s what let’s do - we’ll split the pie half and half.

Papaw:
Now that’s fair dealin’.

- To Give a Gentle Command (phrase)

Used when steering others with kindness
Estel:
What let’s do is take the truck instead.

Elmer:
Alright - you’re drivin’.

★ Usually said by whoever’s takin’ charge - but polite about it. "Here’s what let’s do" sounds softer than "Here’s what we’ll do." ★

Origin and Etymology

Formed by blending two standard English patterns: "What we should do is"" and "Let’s do"." The shortened "what let’s do" structure became common in Southern and Appalachian speech by the early 1900s and remains a hallmark of regional grammar.

Usage Notes

Heard widely across the South, often at the start of family or work decisions. The phrase signals cooperation rather than authority, making it a polite and inclusive way to lead a plan.

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

What does "what let’s do" mean?
It means "here’s what we should do" or "let’s do this." It introduces a plan or idea in a friendly way.
Is it grammatically standard?
Not formally, but it’s perfectly natural in Southern and Appalachian speech.
Do people still use it?
Yes - very often. It’s one of those expressions most Southerners say without realizing it’s regional.

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