loosely
/'lu:sli/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adverb:
- In a way that is not firmly or tightly fixed, held, or structured: Describes something that is not tight, strict, or rigid in its connection, arrangement, or interpretation.
- Without precision or strict adherence to details: Describes an approach that is approximate, general, or not exact.
- In a relaxed or informal manner: Describes a state or action that is not tense or formal.
Usage Examples
- Describing physical connection or structure:
- The scarf was tied loosely around her neck.
- The bricks were stacked loosely, making the wall unstable.
- Describing conceptual connection or interpretation:
- The term "art" can be loosely defined.
- The movie is loosely based on historical events.
- Describing manner or state:
- He held the reins loosely in his hands.
- She sat loosely in the chair, completely at ease.
Advanced Usage
- "Loosely speaking": Used to indicate that a statement is an approximation or general truth, not exact.
- Loosely speaking, all mammals are warm-blooded.
- "Loosely coupled" (in technology/systems): Describes components that are connected but operate with a degree of independence.
- The software uses a loosely coupled architecture for greater flexibility.
- "Loosely organized": Describes a group or structure with minimal formal rules or hierarchy.
- The community project is a loosely organized group of volunteers.
Variants and Related Words
- Loose (adjective): Not firmly or tightly fixed in place; not strict or exact.
- A loose knot, a loose interpretation.
- Loosen (verb): To make something less tight or strict.
- He loosened his tie.
Synonyms
- Approximately: Used for conceptual closeness, not exactness.
- Vaguely: Used for lack of precision or clarity.
- Freely: Used for lack of physical restraint or strict control.
- Slackly: Used primarily for physical lack of tightness.
Antonyms
- Tightly: In a firm, fixed, or close manner.
- Strictly: In a precise and exact manner.
- Rigorously: In a very careful, thorough, and strict way.
Related Phrases
- Hang loosely: To dangle or be suspended without tension.
- The vines hung loosely from the tree branch.
- Fit loosely: To be too large or not snug.
- The jacket fit him loosely after he lost weight.
Adverb
- knitted in a loose manner
- loosely knit
- without regard to specific details or exceptions
- he interprets the law broadly
- in a loose manner
- a union of loosely federated states
- in a relaxed manner; not rigid
- his hands lay loosely