1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To reach an agreement or solution through prolonged and vigorous discussion or debate.
"The two sides sat down for hours to thrash out the terms of the new trade deal."
separable
thrash out
B2 neutral separable transitive
To reach an agreement or solution by means of lengthy and vigorous discussion or debate.
In plain English
To argue or discuss something for a long time until you find a solution or agreement.
What does "thrash out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
To discuss and resolve the details of a complex problem or dispute.
"The committee spent the whole afternoon thrashing out the budget proposals."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To beat something out into a usable shape, like a blacksmith hammering metal.
Actually means
To argue or discuss something for a long time until you find a solution or agreement.
Usage tip
Strongly associated with negotiations, legal or political debates, and business meetings. More common in British than American English. The image is of 'beating out' a solution through intense effort. Common in journalism.
Words that pair with "thrash out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
deal agreement compromise details plan differences
How to conjugate "thrash out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
thrash out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
thrashes out
he/she/it
Past simple
thrashed out
yesterday
Past participle
thrashed out
have + pp
-ing form
thrashing out
continuous
Hear "thrash out" in the wild
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