hash out: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘hash out’ mean?
The idiom "hash out" means to discuss or debate something in detail in order to come to a resolution or agreement.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "thrash out" means to discuss or debate a topic in a thorough and determined manner, often to reach a resolution or agreement.
The idiom "lay to rest" means to finally resolve or put an end to something, especially a controversial or lingering issue, through a definitive action or decision.
The idiom "in detail" means to explain or describe something thoroughly or with great attention to specific information or facts.
The idiom "hear out" means to listen to someone or something until the end, especially when one might have doubts or reservations. It emphasizes the importance of giving full attention and consideration to someone's ideas, opinions, or explanations.
The idiom "go over" means to review or examine something thoroughly to ensure understanding or accuracy.
The idiom "get to the bottom of" means to investigate or find out the underlying or true cause of something, often by thorough examination or questioning.
The idiom "get to grips with" means to become familiar with or understand something difficult or challenging. It implies taking control and actively engaging with the subject matter in order to overcome any obstacles or difficulties.
The idiom "get together" means to meet or gather with someone or a group of people, typically for socializing or discussing something.
The idiom "get down to cases" means to start discussing or dealing with the practical aspects or the main point of a situation or problem.
The idiom "game out" means to plan or analyze a situation in advance, especially in order to anticipate different outcomes and strategies. It is often used in the context of sports, but can also be applied to other areas of life.
Decoding the Origin
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.
Overall, hash out embodies the idea of thoroughly discussing and resolving a problem or conflict through active and honest communication. Its metaphorical link to cooking hash highlights the process of mixing ingredients to create a harmonious outcome. The possibilities for its usage and the depth of discussions it can encompass are vast, reflecting the complexities of human interaction and decision-making.
The related idiom "thrash out" is similar to hash out in its meaning and usage. It also refers to discussing or working out a problem or plan in a thorough and detailed manner, often involving intense debate. The term "thrash" implies a vigorous and energetic approach to finding a solution.
Similarly, the idiomatic expression "air out" shares similarities with hash out, as it involves discussing or resolving an issue through open communication. However, "air out" specifically suggests the need to voice grievances, frustrations, or concerns in order to clear the air and create a more harmonious environment.
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.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *hash out* can be used 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.