Idioms

put something straight

put straight

1. To straighten something or make something properly arranged; to fix, correct, or make amends for something. A noun or pronoun can be used between "put" and "straight." There are a few details in this contract we need to put straight before I'm ready to sign it. Tom's brother really made a mess of things with the company, but there's still time to put things straight. I've just got to put my marriage straight before I can think of doing anything else.
2. To correct someone's attitude, belief, or behavior; to make sure someone understands something correctly. A noun or pronoun is used between "put" and "straight. I had to put Stephen straight after I realized that he'd been operating the machinery wrong this whole time. Helen told me she thought the moon landing was faked, so I had to put her straight!
3. To correct one's own attitude, mindset, or behavior; to make oneself feel, behave, or think correctly. A reflexive pronoun is used between "put" and "straight." I know you're upset, but you need to put yourself straight before we go into that courtroom. Sorry, this whole situation has gotten me all flustered. I just need a minute to put myself straight. He's an addict, so he needs to put himself straight with a fix or he won't be able to function.
See also: put, straight
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

put something ˈstraight

make something neat and tidy; organize or settle something properly: Please put all your papers straight before you leave the office.When he discovered that he was dying, he started to put all his affairs straight.
See also: put, something, straight
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
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