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

My parents sent the money to a friend in Argentina to start the business in their stead while they tied up loose ends in the States.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

As you point out, however, they also require legal counsel and excellent organizational skills to make sure they’re not leaving any loose ends.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 3, 2026

His strategies often involve exploiting legal loopholes and tying up loose ends in court.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 12, 2026

Prison officer John Sneddon is part of the team at Barlinnie's Link Centre that ties up the loose ends prisoners leave behind on the outside.

From BBC • Dec. 10, 2025

Relatives on the pier held the loose ends.

From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides