Phrasal verbs "iron out" vs "winkle out"

Differences between iron out and winkle out

Iron out means to resolve or smooth out difficulties or problems, while winkle out means to extract or uncover something hidden or difficult to find.

Meanings and Definitions: iron out vs winkle out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Iron out

  • 1Remove small problems or irregularities.

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

Winkle out

  • 1Find or get something that takes a great deal of effort.

    It took me a while to WINKLE the truth OUT of him.

Usage Examples: iron out, winkle out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these 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.

winkle out

Example

She managed to winkle out the secret from her friend.

Example

He winkles out the truth from the suspect.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Iron out

To resolve or make less severe a conflict or disagreement between people.

Example

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

To organize or resolve a problem or situation.

Example

She needed to sort out her finances before she could plan her trip.

fix up

To repair or improve something that is not working properly or is in bad condition.

Example

He promised to fix up the old bike and give it to his nephew as a gift.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Winkle out

To find or uncover something that is hidden or difficult to find.

Example

She had to dig out her passport from the bottom of her bag to show it at the airport.

To search for and find something that is hidden or difficult to find.

Example

The detective was able to ferret out the truth about the crime by interviewing witnesses.

To discover or find something that was previously unknown or hidden.

Example

The archaeologists were excited to unearth ancient artifacts during their excavation.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: iron out or winkle out?

In daily conversation, people use iron out more often than winkle out. This is because iron out is used for more common situations such as resolving conflicts or fixing issues. Winkle out is less common and usually used in specific contexts such as investigations or finding hidden information.

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

Iron out and winkle out are both informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

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

The tone of iron out and winkle out can differ based on context. Iron out often carries a positive or hopeful tone when related to resolving issues or conflicts, while winkle out typically has a curious or investigative tone, especially when referring to uncovering hidden information.

iron out & winkle out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Iron out

Synonyms

Winkle out

Antonyms

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