Let go of or let go

Question

Which one is correct? And do they have different meanings?

1. Please let go of her.

2. Please let her go.

Answer 1

They are both grammatical but show up in slightly different usages:

1. "Let go of someone" implies that someone is being physically held, as in directly restrained by hand.
2. "Let someone go" could include a physical restraint, but could also refer to a any other sense of captivity or preventing from departure. It can also be metaphorical, suggesting that one be relieved of a relationship or job or other connection.