- To resolve or smooth out minor problems, difficulties, imperfections, or disagreements in a plan, system, process, or relationship.
Explanation
Origin
- This metaphor compares solving small problems to using a hot iron to smooth out wrinkles or kinks (creases, folds) in clothing.
- Just as ironing makes fabric smooth and presentable, ironing out issues makes a plan or system work smoothly and correctly.
- It generally refers to smaller, less fundamental problems than those requiring hammering out.
- Emerged in the early 20th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Smooth things over
- Sort out the snags
- Fix the glitches
- Tweak it
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- (Not typically used, as it refers to minor issues)
Milder/Formal:
- Resolve the minor discrepancies.
- Address the outstanding points.
- Refine the process/plan.
- Make minor adjustments.
Situational Appropriateness
- Very common in business, project management, and general conversation about plans or processes.
- Neutral formality, suitable for most situations.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Learners should understand that kinks or wrinkles are metaphors for small problems, not literal creases. The focus is on minor adjustments for smoothness.
Examples
- The software is almost ready; we just need to iron out a few minor bugs.
- Let's meet next week to iron out the final details of the event schedule.
- They had a few disagreements early on, but they managed to iron out their differences.
- There are still a few wrinkles to iron out in the new workflow.
Dialogue
Project Manager: The overall project plan looks solid.
Team Member: Yes, but there are a couple of small scheduling conflicts between teams we need to iron out.
Project Manager: Okay, let's look at those specifically and adjust the timelines.
Social Media Examples
- Developer Tweet: Just pushed a small update to iron out some UI glitches reported by users. Thanks for the feedback! #software #update
- Event Planner Post: Final preparations underway for the wedding! Just ironing out the last few seating chart wrinkles. #weddingplanning #details
- Team Chat: Let's have a quick sync tomorrow to iron out the communication flow for this project.
Response Patterns
- Okay, let's identify what needs fixing.
- Good idea. Addressing those small things will make a difference.
- Sounds manageable. Let's get it done.
- Agreement to address the minor issues.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After suggesting ironing out issues:
- Identifying the specific minor problems (kinks, wrinkles).
- Discussing and implementing solutions or adjustments.
- Testing the changes to ensure smoothness.
Conversation Starter
- No. Used when minor problems or imperfections in an existing plan, system, or situation are known and need resolution.
Intonation
- Stress on iron and out. If kinks or wrinkles is included, it's often stressed too.
- We need to IRON OUT these KINKS.
- Usually said in a practical, problem-solving tone.
Generation Differences
- Used commonly across all generations.
Regional Variations
- Common expression in all major English-speaking regions.