Do you know the difference between the words "lose" and "loose"? Do you wonder each time you write one of these words whether you're spelling it right? This article provides examples of how to use "lose" and "loose" correctly, and gives you a trick to remember forever which is which! Lose: This word is a VERB.
Some of its most common meanings are: to come to be without something, to fail to keep track of something, to have someone die, or to fail to win.
Here is a list of some things you can lose: keys; money; a job; 25 pounds; loved ones; a game of pool, your virginity, or your mind.
Before you get lost in thought about all the things you might lose, let's move on to "loose.
" Loose: This word is usually used as an ADJECTIVE.
It can mean: free, unfettered, unbound, or lacking in restraint.
A few of its antonyms (opposites) are: firm, bound and tight.
It can also be used as a VERB meaning to let go of, let shoot or fly, or set free.
Some things that can be or get loose are: Hair, knots, zoo animals, a sexually promiscuous person, a structure, an interpretation, vegetables in the grocery store, and teeth.
There are many idioms that use the word "loose" such as "let loose," "break loose," "cut loose," "hang loose," "turn loose," and "on the loose.
" And are any of you "foot loose and fancy free"? I hope the difference between "lose" and "loose" is clear.
Now, how will you remember which is which? It's easy.
If you want to be loose and free, be free with your "o"s! And whenever you find yourself loosely throwing a double letter "o" into the word loose, ask yourself, "Should I *lose* the "o"?" If you want a verb that means "to be without something," then be without the extra "o" (LOSE it)! And if you think you might lose track of something, lose track of the second "o.
" "Use them or lose them" just took on a new meaning!