What is the Difference Between Loose and Lose?

The difference between "loose" and "lose" lies in their meanings and usage:

• Loose: This word is an adjective that describes something that is not tight or contained. It can also be used as a verb, meaning to set free or release, although this usage is rare. For example, "The hounds have been loosed." As an adjective, "loose" can describe something that is not securely fastened or attached.
• Lose: This word is a verb that means to suffer a loss, be deprived of, part with, or fail to keep possession of something. For example, "I hope I don't lose my dog."

To remember the difference, think of this mnemonic: "If you lose the 'o' of loose, you've spelled the opposite of find". In other words, lose is spelled with one 'o', while loose has two 'o's'.

Comparative Table: Loose vs Lose

Here is a table summarizing the differences between "loose" and "lose":

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In summary:

• "Loose" is an adjective used to describe something that is not tight, securely fastened, or constrained, and it is also a verb that means to set free or let go.
• "Lose" is a verb that means to misplace something, fail to win, or fail to retain possession of something.