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]
(..) provide a service to the community... ...at a bare minimum of expense to Mr. and Mrs. John Q. Taxpayer. Of course he didn't tell the press... ...that "bare minimum of expense" is a fairly loose term. There are different ways to skim off the top. Men, materials, you name it. And oh, my Lord, (..)1994 The Shawshank Redemption