What does the phrasal verb “thrash out” mean?

What are the definitions of “thrash out”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. To discuss and resolve a problem or disagreement in detail.

  Both sides hope to thrash out an agreement by next week.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “thrash out”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb thrash out is to discuss and resolve a problem or disagreement in detail. It is often used when people need to find a solution or come to an agreement on a particular issue.

What are the different verb forms of “thrash out”?

Root Verb	thrash out
Third Person Singular Present	thrashes out
Present Participle	thrashing out
Simple Past	thrashed out
Past Participle	thrashed out

Example

The team needs to thrash out the details of the project.

Example

She thrashes out the issues with her colleagues during the meeting.

Example

They are thrashing out their differences in a heated debate.

Example

We thrashed out the terms of the contract last week.

Example

The problems have been thrashed out and resolved.

What kind of phrasal verb is “thrash out”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Transitive verb

“thrash out” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

The politicians thrashed out the new policy.

Example

The committee thrashed the issue out during the meeting.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“thrash out” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

The politicians thrashed out the new policy.

Example

The committee thrashed the issue out during the meeting.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “thrash out”?

Thrash out a deal

To negotiate and reach an agreement on a business or financial matter.

Example

The two companies thrashed out a deal to merge their operations.

Thrash out a plan

To discuss and finalize the details of a plan or strategy.

Example

The marketing team thrashed out a plan for the upcoming product launch.

Thrash out an issue

To discuss and resolve a specific problem or disagreement.

Example

The union and management thrashed out the issue of employee benefits.

Good things to know

Does “thrash out” have an informal or formal tone?

Thrash out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in professional settings, such as business negotiations, meetings, and discussions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “thrash out”?

Synonyms

• debate
• resolve
• settle
• negotiate
• discuss
• iron out
• work out
• hash out

Antonyms

• ignore
• avoid
• postpone
• delay
• procrastinate
• leave unresolved