nuts and bolts — the basic practical details or essentials of something
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the basic practical details or essentials of something
Pronunciation (IPA): /nʌts ænd boʊlts/
Example Sentences
- The CEO's presentation was full of fancy charts, but the employees wanted to hear the nuts and bolts of the new policy.
- My grandmother can explain the nuts and bolts of cooking better than any celebrity chef on TV.
- The dating app promised to find your soulmate, but users just wanted the nuts and bolts: 'How much does it cost?'
nuts and bolts
NOUN[/nʌts ænd boʊlts/]
the basic practical details or essentials of something
In the center of the frame, an experienced mechanic demonstrates how to properly tighten bolts on an engine to a young apprentice. The instructor points to each specific bolt while explaining the fundamental steps of the repair process. The student watches intently and takes notes as the mechanic shows the essential techniques needed for the job. Other mechanics work on nearby vehicles, focusing on their own basic repair procedures. someone learning the basic practical details and essentials of mechanical work
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase derives from the literal mechanical components nuts and bolts, which are essential fasteners used in assembling machinery. The expression evolved metaphorically from these fundamental hardware pieces to denote the basic, essential elements or fundamental details of any system or concept.
Breakdown
nuts (threaded fasteners) + bolts (cylindrical fasteners with heads) → basic mechanical components → fundamental elements or essential details of a system.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The CEO's presentation was full of fancy charts, but the employees wanted to hear the nuts and bolts of the new policy.”
“My grandmother can explain the nuts and bolts of cooking better than any celebrity chef on TV.”
“The dating app promised to find your soulmate, but users just wanted the nuts and bolts: 'How much does it cost?'”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.