nuts-and-bolts
UK[ˌnʌts ən ˈbəʊlts]US[ˌnʌts ən ˈboʊlts]
adj
concerned with practical details and basic facts rather than theories or grand ideas.
Etymology
the term 'nuts-and-bolts' originates from the mid-20th century, drawing on the most fundamental components of mechanical assembly. the literal nuts and bolts are the simple, indispensable fasteners that hold a structure together. by metaphorical extension, the phrase came to describe the practical, essential, and often mundane aspects of any operation or subject, contrasting with theoretical or abstract principles. this evolution exemplifies a common pattern in english where tangible, everyday objects provide imagery for conceptual attributes.
Analysis
this compound adjective is formed from the plural nouns 'nuts' and 'bolts', which are basic, essential hardware components. its meaning is derived entirely from the metaphorical combination of these two concrete items.
Examples
the new manager preferred a nuts-and-bolts approach to solving the production line issues.
her book provides the nuts-and-bolts information needed to start a small business.
we need to move beyond the vision and discuss the nuts-and-bolts of implementation.