This book is only a novel in the 'loose' sense of the word. [=the word “novel” does not usually refer to a book like this; many people would not consider the book a novel]
Ten advocacy groups from all parts of the country formed a 'loose' alliance/association/coalition to present their shared interests to Congress.
She's been 'cut loose' from her contract. [=the company/organization with whom she had a contract to work has ended the contract]
(..) Untie those back lines! Wade: What's goin' on? Randolph, what happened? I Don't know. The net came loose. I saw what you did. So? So nothin'. I'm sure Willy's grateful. (..)1993 Free Willy