talk things over

Meaning

This expression means to discuss a problem, situation, or important decision thoroughly with someone in order to reach an agreement or find a solution. It implies an open, honest, and collaborative conversation.

Examples

• We had a misunderstanding, but we sat down and talked things over.

  We had a misunderstanding, but we sat down and talked things over.

• Before we make a final decision on the house, I need to talk things over with my husband.

  Before we make a final decision on the house, I need to talk things over with my husband.

• If you are upset about something, it's always better to talk things over.

  If you are upset about something, it's always better to talk things over.

• They spent hours talking things over but still couldn't find a solution.

  They spent hours talking things over but still couldn't find a solution.

• I appreciate that you took the time to talk things over with me.

  I appreciate that you took the time to talk things over with me.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ We need to talk over things before we decide.

  ✓ We need to talk things over before we decide.

  While 'talk over [noun]' is possible, the set phrase 'talk things over' almost always keeps 'things' in the middle.

• ✗ I want to talk over about the project with you.

  ✓ I want to talk things over with you.

  Do not use 'about' with 'talk things over' because the word 'things' already represents the topic of discussion.

Related Expressions

Practice

• Instead of arguing, let's sit down and ___.

  💡 Discuss our issues calmly to find a solution.

  Show answer

  talk things over

• I need to ___ with my manager before I accept the offer.

  💡 Discuss the details thoroughly.

  Show answer

  talk things over