loosen

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In November, parliament voted to replace a longstanding requirement to maintain a state surplus with a new balanced-budget rule, allowing the state to loosen its purse strings.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 12, 2026

Add a little water to loosen it if needed.

From Salon • May 5, 2026

The lawsuit, which has yet to go to trial, seeks a permanent injunction that would prohibit Amazon from engaging in unlawful conduct and loosen its “monopolistic control to restore competition.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2026

A rare decade-long interlude starting in 2011 saw the top brass loosen their grip and Suu Kyi's civilian government tentatively take the reins in a burst of optimism and reform.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

She tried to loosen her shoulders and unclench her jaw, and even forced a smile.

From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny