loose ends

Idioms  

1. 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.

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Example Sentences

The idea that rich lives must close with a few loose ends isn’t a new one.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 7, 2026

Back-to-back wins mean it looks increasingly likely Leeds will avoid the drop, so boss Daniel Farke will have to tie up a few loose ends with his goalkeepers.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

In fact, I’m still tying up some loose ends.

From Salon • Mar. 24, 2026

“To Kill a Cook” is a decadent treat, with enough loose ends in Bernice Black’s life and career to leave readers hungry for more.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

“You tie the loose ends into tassles,” said the girl.

From "The Woman Warrior" by Maxine Hong Kingston