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iron out

to resolve difficulties

In Phrasal Verbs

In more detail

1. (verb) to remove wrinkles from cloth using an iron

2. (verb) to resolve or eliminate problems or difficulties in a plan, agreement, or situation

Examples

• 1. I need to iron out these wrinkles in my shirt before the meeting.
• 2. The two companies are working to iron out the remaining disagreements in their contract.

How to use iron out

This phrasal verb has two distinct uses: the literal sense refers to removing wrinkles from fabric with a pressing tool, while the figurative sense means to resolve or eliminate obstacles in a plan, agreement, or relationship. The figurative usage is more common in modern English and typically implies a methodical, step-by-step approach to solving problems.

Common phrases

• iron out wrinkles
• iron out differences
• iron out problems
• iron out the details
• iron out a disagreement
• iron out kinks

Synonyms

smooth out · resolve · settle · work out · eliminate

Opposites

complicate · aggravate · worsen

Word family

ironing · ironed · irons

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use 'iron out' with only positive outcomes (like 'we ironed out a solution'), but it specifically means removing obstacles or problems, not creating solutions from scratch.

Nearby in Phrasal Verbs

go through, hold back, hold on, keep up with, kick off, lay off

Keep going

How to remember the words you read · Spaced repetition, explained