a loose end

USAGE SUMMARY

"a loose end" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation in which there is an unresolved issue, detail, or circumstance that needs to be taken care of or addressed. For example, "I still have a loose end to take care of before I can submit my application."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"You at a loose end, Jasmin?

The New Yorker

Nor will you feel at a loose end.

Independent

In 1881, Oscar Wilde was at a loose end.

The Times

"It was a loose end I had to tie".

The New York Times

"It was just a loose end," he said.

The New York Times

Sze finally said, "Even if it's a loose end, that could be interesting.

The New Yorker

–or would that leave Lord Ashcroft at rather a loose end? 97.

The Guardian - Opinion

Now your children are gone, you're at a loose end, feeling pointless, worried and frightened.

Independent

It is the summer holidays and Coraline is at a loose end.

The Guardian

Does the problem of America's mad gun laws count as a loose end?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Every passage is a loose end.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a loose end" when referring to something that needs to be resolved or finalized in a project, story, or situation. For example, "Before publishing the report, make sure to tie up all the loose ends."

Common error

Avoid using "a loose end" when referring to the main subject or core element of a discussion; this phrase is meant for peripheral details or unresolved sub-issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a loose end" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb like 'tie up', 'resolve', or 'leave'. It signifies something incomplete or unresolved that requires attention. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Books

14%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Science

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a loose end" is a common and grammatically sound idiomatic expression used to describe an unresolved issue or detail that requires attention. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness. It is frequently found in news, books, and lifestyle content, suggesting its versatility across various contexts. To enhance writing, remember that this phrase is best used for peripheral or sub-issues needing resolution, not the primary focus. Alternatives like "an unfinished task" or "an unresolved issue" can be used for semantic variety. The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dangling thread

Similar imagery but can imply something more fragile or easily overlooked.

an unresolved issue

Emphasizes that a problem hasn't been dealt with.

an unfinished task

Focuses specifically on tasks that are not completed.

an outstanding matter

Highlights that something is still pending or needs attention.

an untied knot

Emphasizes the need to secure or finalize something.

an open question

Indicates that a question remains unanswered or a topic is still under discussion.

a remaining detail

Focuses on specifics that still need to be addressed.

an unclosed case

Often refers to investigations or legal matters that are not finalized.

a missing link

Highlights the absence of something crucial for completeness.

a gap to be filled

Suggests something is missing and needs to be completed.

FAQs

How can I use "a loose end" in a sentence?

You can use "a loose end" to describe something that needs to be resolved or finalized. For instance, "We need to tie up "all the loose ends" before the project is complete."

What does it mean to "tie up a loose end"?

To "tie up a loose end" means to resolve or finalize an outstanding issue or detail. It implies bringing closure to something that is incomplete or unresolved.

What can I say instead of "a loose end"?

Alternatives to "a loose end" include "an unfinished task", "an unresolved issue", or "an outstanding matter", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "loose ends" or should it always be "a loose end"?

"Loose ends" is the plural form and is used when referring to multiple unresolved issues or details. "A loose end" is singular and refers to one specific unresolved issue. For example, "There are several "loose ends" to address before we can proceed."