ENGLISH
REFERENCE

turn loose

idiom
Meaning

To release or let go; to permit (someone or something) to roam freely or to act freely.


Examples
SIMPLE

The farmer decided to turn the horses loose in the field.

CONTEXTUAL

After the long winter, we finally turned the dogs loose in the backyard to run around.

COMPLEX

The director turned the actors loose on stage, encouraging them to improvise their lines and explore the characters freely.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    all bedlam breaks loose

    The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.

  2. 02

    all hell breaks loose

    The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.

  3. 03

    Buggins's turn

    A humorous, disparaging term for the appointment of a person by rotation or promotion, on the basis of length of service (it being that person's "turn") rather than merit or level of qualification.

  4. 04

    cast loose

    To unfasten, loosen, or set free.

  5. 05

    cut loose

    To loosen or set free someone or something.

  6. 06

    cut one loose

    To flatulate; to fart.

  7. 07

    cut someone loose

    To let someone go from something, such as a position, relationship, or obligation.

  8. 08

    everything one touches turns to gold

    Everything someone uses or does succeeds or becomes better.

Last updated April 17, 2026