Word: Iron Out
Basic Meaning: The phrase "iron out" has two main meanings:
Usage Instructions: - Use "iron out" when you want to talk about making something smooth (like clothes) or fixing problems (like disagreements). - It is commonly used in both casual and formal conversations.
Examples: 1. Clothing Context: "I need to iron out my shirt before the meeting." (This means to make the shirt smooth without wrinkles.) 2. Problem-Solving Context: "We should meet to iron out the details of our project." (This means to discuss and clarify any uncertainties or issues about the project.)
Advanced Usage: - "Ironing out" can also refer to refining or adjusting plans or ideas. For example: "The team is ironing out the final touches on the presentation."
Word Variants: - Noun: Ironing (the act of smoothing clothes) - Adjective: Ironed (something that has already been smoothed)
Different Meanings: - As mentioned, "iron out" can refer to both physical ironing of clothes and resolving issues. Context will help you understand which meaning is intended.
Synonyms: - For the clothing context: smooth, press, flatten. - For the problem-solving context: resolve, settle, clarify, fix.
Idioms and Related Phrasal Verbs: - "Smooth over" - to make a disagreement or problem less serious. - "Work out" - to find a solution to a problem.
Summary: "Iron out" is a versatile phrase that can be used in different contexts.