loose end
Definition
Noun 1. An unresolved detail, an unfinished part of a task, or an incomplete aspect of a situation: A "loose end" is a small but important piece of work, information, or a plot point that has not been properly finished, explained, or connected to the whole. It implies something that remains unsettled and needs to be addressed for completeness.
Usage
The term "loose end" is almost always used in the plural form "loose ends". It describes the minor, unfinished tasks or unanswered questions that remain after the main work is done. It is commonly used with verbs like tie up, wrap up, finish, or clear up.
Examples
- Before going on vacation, I need to tie up a few loose ends at the office.
- The detective felt the case was solved, but one loose end still bothered him.
- The movie's ending was unsatisfying because it left too many loose ends.
- Let's meet tomorrow to clear up the remaining loose ends from this project.
Advanced Usage
- "To be at a loose end" (British English): To have nothing particular to do; to be bored or without plans.
- After finishing her exams, she was at a loose end for the summer.
Variants and Related Words
- Loose-ended (adjective): Characterized by being incomplete or unresolved.
- The discussion felt loose-ended and inconclusive.
Synonyms
- Unfinished business
- Pending matter
- Outstanding issue
- Unresolved detail
Related Phrases
- Tie up loose ends: To complete or resolve all the remaining minor details.
- We spent the morning tying up loose ends before the product launch.
- Wrap up loose ends: To finish the final details of something.
- The writer is wrapping up the loose ends in the final chapter.
Noun
-
work that is left incomplete
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