let loose

USAGE SUMMARY

"let loose" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to suggest that someone should give in to an emotion and let it out without restrictions. For example: "The concert was so amazing, I just wanted to let loose and enjoy the moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They let loose.

The New York Times - Magazine

And Sprewell let loose.

The New York Times - Sports

Let loose the fast men.

The Guardian - Sport

"All hell was let loose.

The Guardian

She had to let loose".

The New York Times - Sports

Then Namath dropped back, and let loose.

The New York Times

(Imagine the Constructivists let loose on Photoshop).

The New Yorker

This month's campers certainly let loose.

The New York Times - Sports

It is afraid to let loose.

The New York Times

She also let loose on lead guitar.

The New York Times - Arts

The skies are about to let loose".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "let loose" when you want to convey a sense of freedom, release, or unrestrained expression, either literally (releasing something) or figuratively (expressing emotions).

Common error

Avoid using "let loose" when a more formal or precise term is required. While versatile, it may not be suitable in highly formal or technical contexts where a more nuanced expression is necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let loose" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It describes an action of releasing or freeing, either literally or figuratively, as shown in Ludwig's examples. It can refer to physically releasing something or to expressing emotions without restraint.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

32%

HuffPost

14%

Less common in

The New Yorker

3%

Vice

3%

The Guardian

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "let loose" is a commonly used verb phrase that signifies releasing something or expressing oneself without restraint. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While versatile, its informality makes it less suitable for formal contexts. Its frequency and presence across various sources, including news, media, and wikis, underline its widespread acceptance. When writing, consider the connotation and context to ensure it effectively conveys the intended meaning of release or unrestrained expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unleash

This term carries a connotation of releasing something powerful or previously restrained.

set free

This phrase implies releasing from captivity or confinement.

go wild

This implies unrestrained behavior or excitement.

cut loose

Suggests freeing oneself from obligations or inhibitions.

vent

This suggests expressing a strong emotion or feeling.

give free rein to

This phrase suggests allowing something to develop or proceed without restraint.

give vent to

This phrase is a more formal way of saying "vent".

give way

This implies succumbing to an emotion or force.

express oneself

Focuses on conveying thoughts or feelings openly.

abandon restraint

This suggests intentionally discarding self-control.

FAQs

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

You can use "let loose" to describe releasing something physically, like "They "let loose" the animals into the wild", or to describe expressing emotions freely, like "After the stressful week, she decided to "let loose" and have fun".

What are some alternatives to saying "let loose"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "unleash", "set free", "vent", or "go wild".

Is "let loose" formal or informal?

"Let loose" is generally considered informal. In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "release", "express freely", or "abandon restraint".

What's the difference between "let loose" and "let go"?

"Let loose" implies a sudden release or unrestrained expression, while "let go" more broadly means to release something or someone, or to stop worrying about something.