Tying Up Loose Ends (Origin, Meaning, Definition, Examples)

Tying up loose ends is an idiom we use to describe a situation. The meaning of the idiom is to complete or finish some work. In our daily life, we often use this phrase. It’s referred to when there are jobs that are left unfinished and need to get completed in order to consider the situation or job fully resolved.

The Idiom “Tying Up Loose Ends”

In our daily life, we often use or hear the phrase “tying up loose ends.” An idiom is a sentence or a group of words that is used to describe a situation that doesn’t exactly align with the original meaning. For example, “tying up loose ends” is not related to the actual act of tying.

Tying up loose ends derives from finishing work. To tell someone to finish or complete some unfinished business, we use the phrase tie up loose ends in an idiomatic way.

Meaning of “Tying Up Loose Ends”

The ends of a rope, string, or cable that need to be fastened are called “loose ends.” Most sources assume that both the phrase “loose ends” and the broader expression “tying up loose ends” have nautical roots and origins.

“Tie up loose ends” is an idiom we commonly use to tell someone to finish work. “Tie-up loose ends” refer to addressing the minor repercussions of a prior action; to finish, complete, or tidy up.

This expression is frequently used in formal, conversational English and corporate environments. Tie up some loose ends of a work project is something that employees at a corporation might discuss.

In this case, they are referring to the fact that a project still needs a few finishing touches before it is considered complete.

Since the 1800s, the idiom “tie up loose ends” has been used to refer to unfinished jobs.

Example of Using Tying Up Loose Ends In a Sentence

For describing many situations related to closing or finishing work, we use the idiom “tie up loose ends.” Some of them can be to order or ask to finish unfinished business, and some can be used to clean up messes or clear up clerical tasks.

See the examples below for how we can use the idiom in a sentence:

• Cole probably killed him to tie up any loose ends.
• They said they just wanted to tie up loose ends.
• I know you’re trying to tie up loose ends to go home early.
• I have to tie up loose ends of this project by 8:00 pm.
• If you want to work with us, we got to tie up loose ends.
• I need to tie up a few loose ends before I leave the office.
• Its only 10 days left to the final test. I need to tie up loose ends.
• Briana claims that she is unable to tie up loose ends.
• Please assist me in tying up this project’s loose ends so that I can submit it by 8 pm.