loose end

loose end

n.

A minor unresolved problem or difficulty, especially a final detail preceding the completion of something: The loose ends of the movie's plot are resolved in its sequel.

Idiom:

at loose ends

Without a clear purpose or regular occupation; unsettled in one's affairs: "At loose ends with family gone ... I joined some clubs thinking to find companionship and enrich my life" (Ruth Daniels).

American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

loose end

n

1. a detail that is left unsettled, unexplained, or incomplete

2. at a loose end without purpose or occupation

Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged, 12th Edition 2014 © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2014

loose′ end′

n.

Usu., loose ends. an unsettled or unfinished detail.

Idioms:

at loose ends, in an uncertain or unsettled situation or position; without an occupation or plans.

[1540–50]

Random House Kernerman Webster's College Dictionary, © 2010 K Dictionaries Ltd. Copyright 2005, 1997, 1991 by Random House, Inc. All rights reserved.

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

loose end - work that is left incomplete   unfinished business work - activity directed toward making or doing something; "she checked several points needing further work"

Based on WordNet 3.0, Farlex clipart collection. © 2003-2012 Princeton University, Farlex Inc.

Translations

εκκρεμότητα

loose end

n → dettaglio in sospeso
to tie up loose ends (fig) → sistemare gli ultimi dettagli
to be at a loose end (Am) to be at loose ends (fig) → non saper cosa fare

Collins Italian Dictionary 1st Edition © HarperCollins Publishers 1995