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Phrasal verbs "flesh out" vs "iron out"

Differences between flesh out and iron out

Flesh out means to add more details or information to something, while iron out means to resolve or smooth out problems or difficulties.

Meanings and Definitions: flesh out vs iron out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Flesh out

  • 1Add more details or information.

    The recent government report FLESHED OUT the draft proposals.

Iron out

  • 1Remove small problems or irregularities.

    The management team IRONED OUT the tax problems before they gave the project the OK.

Usage Examples: flesh out, iron out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

flesh out

Example

The writer needs to flesh out the characters in the story.

Example

She fleshes out her ideas with more examples.

iron out

Example

We need to iron out the details before we can start the project.

Example

She irons out any issues before presenting the final report.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Flesh out

elaborate on

To provide more details or information about something.

Example

Can you elaborate on your plan for the project? I want to understand it better.

develop further

To expand or grow something by adding more details or features.

Example

The author plans to develop further the characters in the next book of the series.

add flesh to the bones

To give substance or depth to an idea or concept.

Example

The team brainstormed ideas to add flesh to the bones of their marketing campaign.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Iron out

smooth over

To resolve or make less severe a conflict or disagreement.

Example

The manager tried to smooth over the tension between the two employees by arranging a meeting.

sort out

To solve or clarify a problem or confusion.

Example

We need to sort out the technical issues before launching the new software.

work through

To resolve or overcome a problem or difficulty through effort or discussion.

Example

The couple decided to work through their differences with the help of a therapist.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with โ€œoutโ€

Differences in flesh out vs iron out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: flesh out or iron out?

Both flesh out and iron out are commonly used in everyday conversation, but iron out is slightly more common. This is because it's a versatile phrase that can be used in various contexts, from personal relationships to business dealings. Flesh out is also used frequently, but it's more specific to creative or academic contexts.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of flesh out and iron out

Flesh out and iron out are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, iron out can be used in more formal settings like business meetings or negotiations to convey a professional tone. Flesh out is less appropriate for formal contexts.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of flesh out and iron out

The tone of flesh out and iron out can differ based on context. Flesh out often carries a creative or imaginative tone when related to adding details to a story or idea, while iron out typically has a practical and problem-solving tone, especially when referring to resolving conflicts or issues.

flesh out & iron out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Iron out

Synonyms

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