Loose vs. Lose: Correct Usage

Although they may have nearly identical spellings, loose and lose have different pronunciations and entirely separate meanings. In today’s post, we will break down the meaning and usage of each word.

The Meaning of Loose

Loose is commonly used as an adjective meaning “not tight” or “not contained.” Here are a few examples of loose being used correctly in this way:

Loose clothes can be a hazard in a construction zone.

It’s important to secure bags on top of your car so they don’t come loose.

Jen’s office is littered with loose papers everywhere.

Although perhaps less frequently, loose also can function as a verb (action word) meaning “to let or make loose; to free from restraint,” as in the following sentences:

Have they loosed the children upon the recess yard yet?

My hands are presently dirty. Please loose my tie for me.

The soldiers loosed a rain of bullets and then found what they’d heard was just a falling branch.

The Meaning of Lose

Lose is a verb that means “to misplace” or “to suffer defeat.” If you lose, you fail to win or fail to find something. Here are a few examples of lose being used correctly in sentences:

I hate to lose at chess, but Joe is the better player.

If you often lose your car keys, you should consider keeping them in a single location.

Rob wants to watch the game in person even though his team is likely to lose.

To lose might not be fun. In many cases, it is less fun than to be loosed, which often involves becoming loose from a restraint.

Pop Quiz

Complete each sentence with the correct use of loose or lose.

1. You have to act as if you are excited to win, not afraid to [loose / lose].

2. A single [loose / lose] screw can cause the entire machine to vibrate.

3. The kindling for our fire was bundled, but some branches came [loose / lose].

4. At the park, Jamie was afraid the kids might [loose / lose] the bees from their hive.

5. It’s amazing how much you can save by putting your [loose / lose] coins in a jar.

Bonus: If you [loose / lose] too much weight, your pants may become [loose / lose].

 

Pop Quiz Answers

1. You have to act as if you are excited to win, not afraid to lose.

2. A single loose screw can cause the entire machine to vibrate.

3. The kindling for our fire was bundled, but some branches came loose.

4. At the park, Jamie was afraid the kids might loose the bees from their hive.

5. It’s amazing how much you can save by putting your loose coins in a jar.

Bonus: If you lose too much weight, your pants may become loose.

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