The answer was cut and dried.
cut and dried
idiomSimple, straightforward, clear, or certain.
Origin
first recorded 17th c.First use appears c. 1643. Derives from herbs being cut and dried for sale, rather than fresh.
The contract terms were cut and dried, so we signed it quickly.
What seemed like a cut and dried case grew complicated when new evidence emerged, forcing the lawyers to rethink their strategy entirely.
- 01
clear cut
Straightforward, obvious, simple, or basic.
- 02
cut a dash
To make a display of oneself; to give a conspicuous impression.
- 03
cut a deal
To reach a negotiated agreement.
- 04
cut a figure
To present an image; to make an impression.
- 05
cut a rug
To dance, especially in a vigorous manner and in one of the dance styles of the first half of the twentieth century.
- 06
cut a swath
Alternative form of cut a wide swath.
- 07
cut a wide swath
To behave in an expansive, flagrantly showy, or pushy manner, especially in public venues; to exert sweeping influence.
- 08
cut about
To go around (move from person to person).