1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To resolve a problem, disagreement, or emotional issue through open discussion.
"Instead of staying angry, they sat down and talked things out over dinner."
separable
talk out
B2 neutral separable transitive
To resolve a problem or conflict by discussing it openly and fully, or (British English) to use up parliamentary time to prevent a vote.
In plain English
To fix a problem or argument by talking about it until you feel better or reach an agreement.
What does "talk out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic formal
(British parliamentary English) To prevent a bill from being voted on by speaking until the session ends.
"The opposition managed to talk out the proposed legislation by debating until the session closed."
separable
Usage tip
The emotional resolution sense is very common in therapeutic and relationship contexts. In British parliamentary English, 'talk out' specifically refers to filibustering a bill. The separable object ('talk it out', 'talk things out') is the most common form.
Words that pair with "talk out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
problem differences argument feelings conflict issue
How to conjugate "talk out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
talk out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
talks out
he/she/it
Past simple
talked out
yesterday
Past participle
talked out
have + pp
-ing form
talking out
continuous
Hear "talk out" in the wild
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