English Reference

Phrasal verb

flesh out

Definition

phrasal verb. to add more details or information to a basic plan or idea. You use this when you want to make a simple thought more complete.

phrasal verb. to provide more substance or detail to a skeletal framework, plan, or concept. Transitive; the object is typically an abstract noun representing an idea or project.

Examples

“You need to flesh out your essay with more examples.”

“The marketing team met for three hours to flesh out the details of the new campaign.”

“While the initial proposal was conceptually sound, the committee requested that the researchers flesh out the methodology section to ensure the study's replicability.”

Examples

simple

“You need to flesh out your essay with more examples.”

contextual

“The marketing team met for three hours to flesh out the details of the new campaign.”

complex

“While the initial proposal was conceptually sound, the committee requested that the researchers flesh out the methodology section to ensure the study's replicability.”

Usage

The verb is transitive and can be used in both active and passive voices.

Teaching tip

Contrast with 'flush out' (to force something out of hiding), which is a very common phonological and lexical confusion for learners.

Pitfall

We need to flush out the details.

We need to flesh out the details.

Learners often confuse 'flesh' with 'flush'; 'flesh' refers to adding 'meat' (details) to a 'skeleton' (outline).

Phrasal verb

Particles

out

Separability

optional

Pattern

flesh + out + object

Synonyms

expand onelaboratedevelopadd to

Antonyms

simplifyabbreviateoutline

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

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English Reference