The Grammar Doctor

loose, lose

Many people confuse "loose" and "lose" in writing, but no one confuses the two words in conversation. This is because the spelling gives no clue as to the difference between the two pronunciations.

The "s" in "lose" is pronounced like "z." (You will lose your way in the dark.)
The "s" in "loose" is a sibilant, pronounced with a hissing sound. (There must be a loose connection.)


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