is loose

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is loose" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is usually used when describing something that is not tightly held or secured. Example: The doorknob is loose and needs to be tightened. In this sentence, "is loose" is used to describe the state of the doorknob, indicating that it is not securely attached and may move or come off easily. Other examples could include: - Her shoelaces are loose, she needs to tie them again. - The horse's saddle is loose, it needs to be readjusted. - The table leg is loose, it wobbles when you put weight on it. - The bolt is loose, it needs to be tightened to hold the shelf in place.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Everyone is loose.

The New York Times

Yet that association is loose.

The New York Times

"The issue is loose objects".

The New York Times - Travel

"Reynard the Fox" is loose structurally.

The New Yorker

The atmosphere is loose and informal.

The New York Times

My sleeping position is loose and expressive.

Independent

(One is "Loose Lips Can Save Ships").

The New York Times

Instead of tumbleweeds, there is loose trash.

The New York Times

One of her front teeth is loose.

The New York Times - Books

At Matsuri, the beast is loose.

The New York Times - Arts

Normally his patter is loose and irreverent.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is loose" to describe abstract concepts like regulations or interpretations, ensure the context clearly indicates the lack of strictness or precision you intend to convey.

Common error

Avoid the common error of using "loose" when you mean "lose". "Loose" describes something not tightly fastened, while "lose" means to misplace or be defeated. For example, "The screw is loose" versus "I don't want to lose the game".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is loose" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state or condition of a noun. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it indicates that something is not firmly fixed or tightly secured. Examples from Ludwig show it describing physical objects, abstract concepts, and even emotional states.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

27%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is loose" is a common and grammatically correct construction used to describe something that lacks firmness or tightness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a predicate adjective, primarily used to indicate a state of being unattached or unrestrained. The phrase appears frequently in News & Media, Wiki, and Scientific contexts. When employing "is loose", it's important to avoid confusing it with "lose" and to ensure the intended meaning is clear, especially when describing abstract concepts. Alternatives such as "is detached" or "is slack" can offer nuanced expressions depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not tight

A more direct and literal way of expressing the lack of tightness.

is not fixed

Indicates a lack of permanence or stability in its position.

is slack

Suggests a lack of tension or tightness, often applicable to ropes or fabrics.

is detached

Indicates a complete separation, implying a stronger degree of looseness.

is unsecured

Emphasizes the lack of security or fastening.

is barely attached

Emphasizes the fragility of the attachment and the high risk of detachment.

is unfastened

Focuses on the action of becoming loose rather than the state.

is wobbly

Implies instability and movement due to looseness.

is unhinged

Suggests being unstable or detached, similar to being loose, often implying something more dramatic.

is coming apart

Suggests that something is in the process of becoming loose and separating.

FAQs

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

You can use "is loose" to describe something that isn't firmly attached or tightly fitted. For instance, "The handle of the door is loose and needs repair."

What does it mean when something "is loose"?

When something "is loose", it means it's not firmly fixed or tightly secured. It might move around or detach easily.

What's the difference between "is loose" and "is tight"?

"Is loose" indicates a lack of firmness or security, while "is tight" suggests something is firmly secured or closely fitted.

What can I say instead of "is loose"?

Alternatives to "is loose" include "is detached", "is slack", or "is not tight" depending on the specific context.