easy
One loose button hung from the jacket.
What does Loose mean?
Loose usually means not tight, fixed, or contained.
Dictionary definition
Not tight, securely attached, contained, or exact; as a less common verb, to release or untie something.
Example sentences
Loose in a sentence
easy
The dog got loose when the gate opened.
medium
The film is a loose adaptation of the novel.
hard
In formal storytelling, an archer may loose an arrow, though release is more common.
Writing practice
Ready to write your own? Study the examples, then practice loose in a sentence with Sentence Builder checklist feedback.
Commonly confused words
Loose or lose?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Loose
Loose usually means not tight, fixed, or contained.
In a sentence One loose button hung from the jacket.
Lose
Lose means to no longer have something, be unable to find it, or fail to win.
In a sentence Use the case so you do not lose your glasses.
Spot the difference Loose usually describes a condition; lose is the verb for misplacing, no longer having, or not winning. The uncommon verb loose means release, but loosen is usually clearer for making something less tight.
Which word fits?
Choose loose or lose for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The ___ lid rattled on the empty box.
Check answer 1
loose — Loose describes the lid: it was not firmly attached.
2Put your library card in its pocket so you do not ___ it.
Check answer 2
lose — Lose is the action word for being unable to find or keep the card.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with looseQuick practice
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Practice the meaning of Loose
Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.
Question 1 of 3
Practice 1
What does loose usually mean?
Loose is usually an adjective describing something not tight, secure, or confined.
Practice 2
Choose the word that completes the sentence: “Tie the canoe before it comes ___.”
Come loose means become free or no longer securely attached.
Practice 3
Which sentence uses loose correctly?
Loose describes the wheel as not securely fixed; lose is the usual verb for misplacing or not winning.
Practice complete
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You completed 3 questions.
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Loose
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WordLoose.
Partadjective, verb.
MeaningLoose means Loose usually means not tight, fixed, or contained.
ExampleExample: One loose button hung from the jacket.
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Synonyms
Words like Loose
Antonyms
Opposite words
Synonym practice
Want to practice loose synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "The rope felt loose after the knot slipped," then compare close word choices. Practice loose synonyms.
Word family
Loose word family
Related words
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Student support
Understand Loose
Hint for students
Loose usually describes something not tight or secure. It rhymes with goose.
Common mix-up
Loose usually describes a condition; lose is the verb for misplacing, no longer having, or not winning. The uncommon verb loose means release, but loosen is usually clearer for making something less tight.
Try it in class or at home
Sort examples by loose meaning: not attached, not tight, not contained, or not exact. Then correct lose/loose sentences and explain the spelling and pronunciation clue.
Teacher prompt
Compare “The knot is loose” and “Do not lose the rope.” Which word describes a condition, and which word names an action?
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Learning activities
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