The phrase "crank out" is commonly used to describe the act of producing something quickly and in large quantities. The word "crank" is pronounced /kræŋk/ with a voiced velar stop followed by a nasal consonant. The word "out" is pronounced /aʊt/ with a diphthong that starts with an open back unrounded vowel and ends with a mid back rounded vowel. The combination of these two words creates the compound verb "crank out", which is commonly spelled with a space between the two words.
The phrase "crank out" is a phrasal verb that is commonly used in informal and colloquial contexts. It refers to the act of producing or creating something quickly and in large quantities, often with minimal effort or thought.
When someone "cranks out" something, they are engaging in a rapid production process, usually aiming to meet a specific demand or deadline. This can apply to various activities, such as writing, manufacturing, or completing repetitive tasks. It implies a high level of productivity and efficiency, often with a sense of urgency.
The term "crank out" often conveys the idea of a mechanical or repetitive action, likening the process to turning a crank on a machine. It suggests that the focus is on quantity rather than quality, as the primary objective is to complete the task as quickly as possible rather than ensuring perfection or meticulousness.
In a broader sense, "crank out" can also refer to consistently or continuously producing or generating content, ideas, or work in a fast-paced manner. It can depict someone who is highly productive or someone who is capable of meeting demanding requirements.
Overall, "crank out" is a phrasal verb that encapsulates the idea of fast and efficient production, often with a focus on quantity rather than quality.
The term "crank out" has its origins in the late 19th century and is believed to be a figurative extension of the mechanical action of cranking. The word "crank" refers to the handle or lever used to operate a machine or mechanism, usually in a circular motion. When applied to "crank out", it suggests the idea of producing or creating something rapidly and continuously, as if one were relentlessly turning the crank of a machine. Over time, "crank out" became a colloquial expression commonly used to describe the act of producing a large quantity of something quickly or with minimal effort.