Lose is a verb
Lose means to misplace something, fail to keep it or not win. Example: “Do not lose your keys.”
Loose is usually an adjective
Loose describes something that is not tight or firmly fixed. Example: “The screw is loose.”
Remember the extra letter
Loose has an extra o and a longer vowel sound. Lose is shorter and describes an action or outcome.
Frequently asked questions
Is “I don't want to loose” correct?
If you mean you do not want to fail to keep or win something, use “lose.”
Can loose be a verb?
Yes. To loose can mean to release, though this use is less common in everyday writing.