In a way that is not firmly fastened, tightly connected, or strictly controlled; somewhat vaguely or approximately.
From 'loose' (from Old Norse 'lauss,' meaning 'free' or 'unbounded') plus '-ly.' The word has remained relatively stable since Middle English.
The phrase 'loosely based on a true story' is interesting because 'loosely' admits the creator took major liberties—it's like a cultural permission slip to change facts, and legally it matters a lot!
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