The phrasal verb "straighten out" is predominantly used in informal speech, although it can appear in formal contexts depending on the setting. It typically means to resolve a problem or correct a misunderstanding. For example, someone might "straighten out" a financial discrepancy or "straighten out" a confusing situation. It can also refer to organizing or tidying up a physical space or improving one's behavior or circumstances, such as straightening out one's life. Its versatility makes it common in both conversational language when discussing personal matters or minor issues, as well as in business or professional environments when addressing procedural or relational concerns. The informal nature of the term often conveys a sense of practicality and hands-on involvement in resolving issues.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To make something straight or orderly which is bent or confused.
She straightened out the tangled wires.
I hope to straighten out my messy desk by the end of the day.
2. To resolve misunderstandings or conflicts.
They had a meeting to straighten out their differences.
I need to straighten out this issue with the bank.
3. To fix a situation or solve a problem.
The new manager helped straighten out the company's finances.
We need to straighten out the problems in the project plan.
