wash a few things out

wash a few things out

1. Literally, to wash several items of clothing, especially by hand. Looking for Mom? She's in the laundry room washing a few things out in the sink.

2. To take care of, finish, or resolve some or several tasks. Often used as a vague excuse or explanation for why one must leave or can't do something. A: "Are you leaving already?" B: "Yeah, sorry. I have to go wash a few things out." Sorry, we'd be happy to help with data entry, but my team is still washing a few things out on our own project.

See also: few, out, thing, wash

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

I have to wash a few things out.

 

1. Lit. I have to wash things by hand, such as socks and underwear. I have to wash a few things out before I go to bed. She has to wash out a few things.

2. Fig. I have to do something (that keeps me from spending time with you). Jane: Time to shove off. I have to wash a few things out. John: Bye, Jane. Bill: I have to wash out a few things. Bob: Why don't you use a machine? Bill: Oh, I'll see you later.

See also: few, have, out, thing, to, wash

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.