loose threads
Unresolved narrative details
Loose threads are strands of fabric that have come undone from a garment or textile, hanging free where they should be woven in.
Figuratively, loose threads are unresolved elements in a story, investigation, or plan—details that haven't been tied up: The detective kept pulling at loose threads until the case unraveled.
To tie up loose threads is to resolve remaining questions or finish incomplete business.
- unravelingProcess of coming undone
- coming undoneProgressively losing cohesion
- frayedUnraveled at edges
- danglingSuspended and swaying freely
- stitchesThread fastening wounds
seams · fabric · sewing · sewing kit · needle · hem · snag · pull · tangle · knot · tie up · yarn · textile · edges · ragged · coming apart · unfinished · hanging
- appearance blunderswardrobe malfunction, stain, wrinkled clothes, visible panty line, mismatched socks
- signs of wearfrayed edges, faded paint, cracked leather, scuffed shoes, dull finish
- book damagewater damage, torn pages, cracked spine, broken spine, spine damage
- craft flawscracks, tears, holes, stains, gaps
- textile scrapsfabric scraps, lint, scraps, cuttings, clippings
- raggednesstattered, shabby, worn, threadbare, frayed
loose threadsresolution
Formal decision or determination
closure · denouement · clean finish · full circle · catharsis
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