# nail down

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nail-down
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to make something certain or final, like a plan or a deal. You use this when you want to get specific details so there are no more questions.

For teachers: to establish something definitively or to reach a final agreement. Transitive; often used in professional contexts to describe the transition from abstract ideas to concrete specifics.

## Examples

- We need to nail down the date for the party.
- After weeks of talking, the two companies finally managed to nail down the terms of the contract.
- Despite the initial ambiguity of the proposal, the committee worked tirelessly to nail down the logistical requirements before the fiscal year ended.

## Pitfalls

- Not "We nailed down to the plan." but "We nailed down the plan." — The verb is transitive and takes a direct object without a preposition like 'to'.

## Usage notes

- Usually takes a direct object like 'details', 'dates', 'terms', or 'plans'.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'hammer out', which implies a more difficult or argumentative process of reaching an agreement.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.