loosely

• Adverbe signifiant 'de manière lâche, sans être serré ou tendu ; sans rigueur ni contrainte'. Peut aussi indiquer une interprétation approximative ou non stricte, par exemple 'grosso modo'.

An adverb meaning 'in a loose manner' or 'not tightly; with freedom or relaxation.' It can also refer to an approximate or non‑strict interpretation, e.g., 'loosely speaking.'

1. In a relaxed mannerB1formal

   In a way that is not tight, rigid, or strict; with freedom of movement.

   de manière relâchée

   • She wore the scarf loosely around her neck.
   • The rope was tied loosely to the post.
   • He held the reins loosely as the horse walked.

   Synonymescasuallyfreelylaxlyslackly

   Antonymesfirmlyrigidlystrictlytautlytightly

2. Without precision or strictnessB2formal

   In a way that is not exact or does not follow specific details or rules.

   de manière imprécise

   • The term is used loosely in everyday conversation.
   • He interpreted the instructions loosely, leading to errors.
   • The word 'theory' is often used loosely in popular science.

   Synonymesapproximatelybroadlycasuallyflexiblygenerallyimpreciselyinexactlyliberallyroughlyvaguely

   Antonymesexactlyfaithfullyliterallypreciselyrigorouslystrictlystringently

3. In a loose knitting styleB2formal

   In a way that creates a loose, open fabric with large stitches.

   De manière lâche (tricot)

   • She knitted the sweater loosely for a more casual look.
   • The pattern suggests knitting loosely to achieve the desired drape.
   • He prefers to knit loosely so the fabric is more breathable.

   Synonymeslaxlyslackly

   Antonymestightly