Lose vs Loose: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
Lose" means to misplace or not win, while "loose" is used to describe something that is not tight or is slack.
Memory Tip: lose = lost something, loose = not tight
lose ends with /z/ sound, loose ends with /s/ sound
lose /luːz/
verbTo lose means not to have something anymore.
Example:
I don't want to lose my keys, so I always put them in the same place.
Common patterns:
lose a game
lose your keys
loose
adjectiveThe term "loose" describes something that is not firmly attached, tightly held, or securely fastened, often implying a lack of restriction or control.
Example:
My shoe is loose, so I need to tie it again.
Common patterns:
loose clothing
loose ends
loose interpretation
Common Mistakes
I need to loose weight before the wedding.
I need to lose weight before the wedding.
The word 'lose' is correct here because it means to shed or get rid of weight.
The dog's collar is too lose and might fall off.
The dog's collar is too loose and might fall off.
The word 'loose' is correct here because it describes the collar being not tight enough.
Quick Practice
0/2 correct1. I don't want to ____ my keys, so I always put them in the same place.
2. My shoe is ____, so I need to tie it again.
Other Confusing Words
Never confuse lose / loose again
Practice confusing word pairs with your daily goal in the Vocab5000 app and learn them for good with a scientifically proven repetition system. Start for free now.
