The Village Idiom

hash out

The idiom "hash out" means to discuss or debate something in detail in order to come to a resolution or agreement.

Filed under H

In a sentence

  • We need to sit down and hash out the details of our plan.
  • Let's schedule a meeting to hash out any differences we may have.
  • The two parties have been hashing out a compromise for weeks.

Where it comes from and how it is used

Hash out is commonly used in American English and derives from the practice of cooking hash by thoroughly mixing leftover ingredients together. It is an informal idiom used to discuss or work out a problem, disagreement, or plan in a thorough and detailed manner. The idiom implies careful examination and lively debate, often involving multiple participants.

Hash out can be used in a variety of situations, such as hashing out the details of a business deal, resolving a conflict between two individuals, or clarifying the logistics of a project. It is often used when there is a need to resolve a complex issue or reach a consensus through open and direct communication.

When using hash out, it is important to note that it conveys active engagement and sometimes even confrontation. It suggests a willingness to delve into the heart of the matter, openly voice differing opinions, and invest time and effort in finding a satisfactory resolution.

Hash out is commonly used in verbal communication but can also be found in informal or conversational writing. It is widely used in publications such as newspapers, magazines, and online articles.

When encountering the idiom hash out, one can explore related idioms such as thrash out and air out to gain a deeper understanding of the range of expressions available to convey the concept of thorough discussion and resolution.

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