iron out differences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "iron out differences" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means to resolve or smooth over disagreements or conflicts. Example: The two leaders met to iron out their differences and find a solution to the ongoing trade dispute between their countries.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

And then he must iron out differences with the House bill.

The New York Times

Convene conference committees more often to iron out differences in bills from both houses.

The New York Times

The bills will next go to a conference committee, to iron out differences between them.

The New York Times

A 17-member conference committee is trying to iron out differences.

The New York Times

The Tokyo meetings were nonbinding and limited in size in an effort to prompt members to iron out differences.

The New York Times

They urged the Met to reconsider and called for a meeting next week to iron out differences.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

They minimized dissent, they said, by ironing out differences at work sessions.

The New York Times

The secretary of state, John Kerry, who deeply understands this challenge, stayed in Paris, rounding up support and ironing out differences.

The Guardian - Opinion

Like the novel, the movie is about ironing out differences and letting go of the past and anger.

The New York Times

"We look forward to ironing out differences arising out of national priorities and perceptions," Mr. Duterte said, "and working in mutually responsible ways for both countries".

The New York Times

Participants in today's news conference said the agreement would serve as a blueprint for ironing out differences with other communities that oppose the project.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "iron out differences", ensure that the context involves resolving disagreements between parties or discrepancies in data. It implies a process of smoothing or resolving these issues to achieve a more harmonious or accurate outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "iron out differences" when the situation requires a more forceful intervention or when fundamental values are in conflict. This phrase is best suited for situations where disagreements are relatively minor and can be resolved through discussion and compromise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "iron out differences" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of resolving disagreements or discrepancies. Ludwig AI indicates it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "iron out differences" is a common and generally accepted idiom used to describe the process of resolving disagreements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Analysis of usage contexts reveals that it's frequently employed in news reporting, encyclopedias, and scientific writing to describe the resolution of conflicts or discrepancies. While suitable for various situations, it's best used when the disagreements are relatively minor and can be resolved through discussion and compromise. Alternatives like "resolve conflicts" or "reconcile differences" can be used in more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolve conflicts

Focuses on the act of finding a solution to a conflict, emphasizing the outcome.

settle disagreements

Highlights the act of ending disagreements, pointing towards a conclusion.

reconcile differences

Emphasizes bringing differing views into harmony, suggesting a deeper level of agreement.

work through issues

Focuses on the process of dealing with problems, underlining the effort involved.

smooth over disagreements

Implies minimizing the impact of disagreements, making them appear less significant.

find common ground

Highlights the discovery of shared beliefs or interests, suggesting a foundation for agreement.

reach a consensus

Emphasizes achieving a mutually agreeable decision, underlining the agreement aspect.

sort out problems

Focuses on organizing and solving problems, highlighting the clarification aspect.

hammer out a deal

Suggests intensive negotiations to reach an agreement, with a focus on the final arrangement.

negotiate a solution

Highlights the bargaining process to achieve a resolution, focusing on the interaction and compromise.

FAQs

How can I use "iron out differences" in a sentence?

You can use "iron out differences" to describe a process of resolving disagreements. For example, "The committee met to "iron out differences" between the proposed budget plans."

What does "iron out differences" mean?

"Iron out differences" means to resolve disagreements or smooth over conflicts to reach an agreement or understanding.

What's a more formal way to say "iron out differences"?

In a more formal context, you could say "reconcile differences" or "resolve conflicts".

Is it better to "iron out differences" or "smooth over differences"?

Both ""iron out differences"" and "smooth over differences" are valid, but "iron out differences" suggests a more thorough and active resolution, while "smooth over differences" implies a more superficial or temporary fix.