Frouxa

Frouxa is the feminine form of the Portuguese adjective frouxo, used to describe something that is not firm, tight, or compact. It can indicate slackness, looseness, or a lack of firmness in a literal sense, as well as a more figurative sense of laxity or leniency.

In practical terms, frouxa is commonly applied to clothing and fabrics. A "blusa frouxa" or "calça frouxa" refers to loose-fitting garments, while "tecido frouxo" describes a fabric that drapes loosely or lacks a tight weave. The word can also describe other items that are not held tightly in place, such as a loose belt or a loose knot.

Figuratively, frouxa conveys laxity or insufficient rigor. Phrases like "medidas frouxas" (loose measures), "fiscalização frouxa" (lax oversight), or "disciplina frouxa" (lenient discipline) illustrate its use beyond physical looseness. In these contexts, the term usually carries a negative nuance, signaling inadequate standards or enforcement.

Regional usage varies within the Portuguese-speaking world, but frouxa is widely understood in both Brazilian Portuguese and European Portuguese. It is not typically employed as a proper noun or specialized term, and its exact connotations can depend on context, ranging from simply describing fit to criticizing laxity in policy or enforcement.