ins and outs

plural noun

1. physical characteristics, as windings and turnings, nooks, or recesses.

   the ins and outs of a subterranean passage.

2. intricacies; particulars; peculiarities.

   the ins and outs of the tax laws.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ins and outs¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Idioms and Phrases

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]

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]

Example Sentences

Here are some of the ins and outs of Southwest’s new boarding system.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Newbies might not know the ins and outs of a dividend, but they are drawn in by a gift, he added.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Unless you know the ins and outs of someone’s job, it might be hard to gauge from their stories whether they are a diligent worker.

Read more on MarketWatch

He had to explain the ins and outs of the taxing preparation and procedure.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

They understand the ins and outs of the capital appeal process where “multiple claims can be pending simultaneously in state and federal court.”

Read more on Slate