crank out: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "crank out" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It has a literal meaning as well as a figurative one. The literal meaning refers to the act of producing or manufacturing something quickly and in large quantities, often with little regard for quality or detail. This can be seen in the context of factories or assembly lines where products are mass-produced. The figurative meaning of the idiom is more abstract and refers to the act of producing something rapidly, often with little effort or creativity.

When used in its literal sense, "crank out" is often used to describe the efficient production of goods. It conveys the idea of a mechanical or repetitive process that churns out items with speed and volume. For example, a car manufacturer might be praised for their ability to "crank out" hundreds of vehicles in a short period of time. In this context, the emphasis is on quantity rather than quality.

The idiom "crank up" is closely related to "crank out" and is often used interchangeably. "Crank up" refers to the act of increasing the speed or intensity of a process or activity. It can be used in various contexts, such as "cranking up the volume" or "cranking up the heat". In relation to "crank out", "crank up" can be used to describe the act of increasing the rate of production or output. For example, a factory might need to "crank up" production to meet high demand.

The idiom "crank the handle" is another related phrase that emphasizes the physical aspect of production. It refers to the act of using a crank to operate a machine or apparatus. In the context of "crank out", "crank the handle" can be used to describe the repetitive action of producing something. For example, a writer might be said to "crank the handle" when they are producing a large volume of work in a short amount of time.

The idiom "bang out" is another related phrase that emphasizes the speed and force with which something is produced. It can be used to describe the act of producing something quickly and with great energy. In relation to "crank out", "bang out" can be used to describe the rapid production of work or goods. For example, a musician might be said to "bang out" a song on the piano when they play it with speed and intensity.

The figurative meaning of "crank out" is more commonly used in everyday language. It is often used to describe the quick and effortless production of written or creative work. This usage implies a lack of thoughtfulness or depth in the production process, suggesting that the work is produced hastily and without much consideration for quality or originality.

While the idiom "crank out" is often used in a negative or dismissive manner, it can also be used in a more neutral or positive way. In some contexts, it may simply describe the ability to produce a large volume of work efficiently, without implying any negative connotations. For example, a highly productive individual might be described as being able to "crank out" tasks or projects with ease.

The origin of the idiom "crank out" is unclear, as it is difficult to trace the exact origins of idiomatic expressions. However, it is likely that the phrase emerged in the early 20th century, coinciding with the rise of mass production and the increased use of machinery in various industries. The mechanical and repetitive nature of the phrase reflects the industrial era in which it originated.

The idiom "crank out" has both a literal and a figurative meaning. It is often used to describe the efficient production of goods or the rapid production of written or creative work. While it can be used in a dismissive or negative way, it can also be used in a more neutral or positive sense. The origins of the idiom are unclear, but it is likely to have emerged during the early 20th century. The continued use of the phrase in modern language highlights the enduring influence of mass production and the ease with which we can now produce and consume vast quantities of goods and information.