# loose end

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/loose-end
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A small job that needs to be done, or minor problem that needs to be resolved, before a task can be considered complete.

## Examples

- I have one loose end to finish before I leave work.
- Before we can officially close the project, we need to tie up every remaining loose end.
- The detective reviewed his notes one last time, determined to resolve every loose end before presenting his final report to the chief.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.