As a copywriter, I get asked the same questions a lot, but maybe this one more than any other: “Hey, you’re a writer dude, what’s correct? Is it “Flesh out”? Or “flush out”?

I always have the same response: first, I repress the urge to punch them in the throat for calling me “writer dude”.

Once that’s over with, I rub my chin thoughtfully and remind them that language is tricky and there’s no right answer to this question. It just depends upon what you’re trying to describe.

So let me take a moment to explain, then you can decide for yourself which phrase is best for your next status meeting or client preso.

Flesh out:

What it means: The idea behind this phrase is that you’re starting with a skeleton or framework, to which you’re adding the more complex parts: you’re putting meat, or flesh, on the bones of your idea.

Use it when: you’re discussing an initial idea, a project framework, or a prototype — and in particular, one that seems to warrant further exploration.

Flush out:

What it means: This phrase describes an incoherent, chaotic flooding effect. As compared to “flesh out”, which starts with a defined skeleton to which one adds substance, “flush out” is more about irrigating the initial idea until it’s a wet, soggy mess that may or may not smell unpleasant, and something important may have drowned in it.

Use it when: you’re discussing a fox hunt, a septic system, an inflamed colon, one or more sinus cavities, or a bad idea I’ve probably already stopped caring about.

All clear now? Like I said, there’s no wrong answer, it just depends what you’re going for.