loose ends

Idioms and Phrases

Unfinished details, incomplete business. For example, We've not quite finished the project; there are still some loose ends . This expression alludes to the ends of a rope or cable that should be fastened. [Mid-1800s] Also see at loose ends .

Example Sentences

The SBU appears to be covering tracks, getting rid of evidence, tying up loose ends.

From The Daily Beast

Round and round in circles, no loose ends left over, and it all made for a comforting sense of completeness.

From The Daily Beast

There are many loose ends surrounding the crime and the bickering, even though somewhat abated, will undoubtedly flare again.

From The Daily Beast

It was a relentlessly plot-driven show, and the writers were very good about making connections and tying up loose ends.

From The Daily Beast

As I packed up to leave Philadelphia, I decided to tie up loose ends, including Shon.

From The Daily Beast

He twisted the loose ends back and tacked the flat arch thus made to the top and inner posts of the trellis.

From Project Gutenberg

The German youth was wearing an old-fashion tippet around his neck, the loose ends flying behind.

From Project Gutenberg

I knew your father wanted a successor—some one who'd try and tie up the loose ends.

From Project Gutenberg

You see, mother dear, Ill need to get all the loose ends up out of the way if I go back even for three days!

From Project Gutenberg

I said this afternoon that my reconstruction was not wholly satisfactory, because there were several loose ends in it.

From Project Gutenberg