2008年10月12日 星期日

ins and outs, be in and out of somewhere

And yet it was the older men who really knew how to work, he said, adding: “They’re the ones who worked during Japan’s decades of economic boom, so they know the ins and outs of every job. It’s just that they don’t have the strength anymore.”

ins and outs

(ĭnz; outs)

pl.n.
  1. The intricate details of a situation, decision, or process.
  2. The windings of a road or path.

1. 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]
2. 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]

Definition

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be in and out of somewhere INFORMAL
to be frequently staying in and receiving treatment in a particular place:
She's been in and out of hospitals ever since the accident.

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