What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
untying
Example
Can you help me untie this knot? [untie: verb]
Example
I am untying the rope from the tree. [untying: gerund or present participle]
loosening
Example
I am loosening my belt because it's too tight. [loosening: present participle]
Example
The physical therapist recommended loosening up before exercising. [loosening: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Loosening is more commonly used than untying in everyday language. Loosening is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while untying is more specific and refers to the act of undoing a knot or unfastening a tie.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between untying and loosening?
Both untying and loosening are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
