chalk out
1. To illustrate something, often a plan or concept, by literally drawing it in chalk. A noun or pronoun can be used between "chalk" and "out." The architect quickly chalked out her vision for the addition to our house, to gauge our initial reactions to it. Once Ted chalked it out for me, his plan for the heist actually made some sense. Can you chalk out what you're envisioning for this part of the space, though? I'm just not seeing it.
2. To explain something to someone. A noun or pronoun can be used between "chalk" and "out." I still don't understand your idea. Can you start over and chalk it all out for me? I know it can be confusing, but once I chalk it out for you, I think you'll start to get it. Do you understand the healthcare proposal? Can you chalk it out for me then?
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
chalk something out
1. Lit. to draw a picture of something in chalk, especially to illustrate a plan of some type. The coach chalked the play out so the players could understand what they were to do. Our team captain chalked out the play.
2. Fig. to explain something carefully to someone, as if one were talking about a chalk drawing. She chalked out the details of the plan over the phone.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.