This short guide explains the difference between lose and loose with clear examples. Each section focuses on one word so you can see how they’re used in typical sentences.
Lose
Lose is a verb that means to no longer have something, to fail to keep something, or to be unable to find something. It often appears with things like time, money, games, keys, and opportunities.
Examples
I always lose my keys when I’m in a hurry.
Expressions
Common expressions with lose include lose your mind, lose weight, lose interest, and lose track of time. These phrases use lose in both literal and figurative ways.
| English Expression | Explanation | |
|---|---|---|
| "Lose your shirt" | To lose a lot of money | |
| "Lose your cool" | To become angry or upset | |
| "Lose track of time" | To forget how much time has passed | |
| "Lose face" | To be embarrassed or lose respect | |
| "Lose your mind" | To become very confused or crazy |
Loose
Loose is usually an adjective meaning not tight, free, or not firmly fixed. It can describe things like clothing, screws, teeth, animals, or rules. Sometimes loose is used as a verb meaning to set free or release, but this is less common.
Examples
Expressions
Expressions with loose include set loose, feel loose, loose cannon, and loose ends. These phrases often retain the idea of something being free, uncontrolled, or not tightly bound.
| English Expression | Explanation | |
|---|---|---|
| "At loose ends" | Feeling bored or with nothing to do | |
| "Loose cannon" | Someone unpredictable or reckless | |
| "Go off the loose" | To escape or run away | |
| "Loose lips" | Someone who talks too much or reveals secrets | |
| "Set loose" | To release or let go |
Summary
Remember: use lose with the idea of failing to keep something or misplacing it, and use loose to describe something not tight or secure. Double-check whether you need a verb lose or an adjective loose to pick the right word in each sentence.
Last updated: Fri Oct 24, 2025