Lose vs. loose

Quick answer

Lose means to fail to keep or win something. Loose means not tight.

lose

To misplace something, or to be defeated.

“Don't lose your ticket.”

“We might lose the game.”

Not tight or not fixed in place.

“These jeans are loose around the waist.”

Loose has an extra O, like extra room in a loose shirt. Lose has lost an O.

A _____ screw made the chair wobble.

If you _____ the receipt, you can't return it.