ins and outs
Americanplural noun
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physical characteristics, as windings and turnings, nooks, or recesses.
the ins and outs of a subterranean passage.
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intricacies; particulars; peculiarities.
the ins and outs of the tax laws.
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The intricate details of a situation or process. For example, It takes a newcomer some time to learn the ins and outs of the legislative process , or David really knows the ins and outs of how this engine works . This usage alludes to the tortuous windings and turnings of a road or path. [Second half of 1600s]
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Those with position and influence and those without, especially those in office versus those who are not, as in “Juan stood well both with Ins and Outs” (Byron, Don Juan , 1823). [Mid-1700s]
Etymology
Origin of ins and outs
First recorded in 1880–85
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Ins and outs of little bays afford a nice variety, while round the brink are certain trees of a modest and unpretentious bent.
From Mary Anerley : a Yorkshire Tale by Blackmore, R. D. (Richard Doddridge)
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
