The correct spelling of the phrase "cut and dried" refers to a situation or issue that is settled and no longer subject to debate. The phonetic transcription of the word "cut" is /kʌt/, which refers to the sound made when the lips briefly close and release to produce the vowel sound /ʌ/. The phonetic transcription of the word "dried" is /draɪd/, which refers to the sound made when the lips form a wide smile and the tongue raises to produce the vowel sound /aɪ/.
The phrase "cut and dried" is an idiom used to describe something that is already decided, settled, or resolved, leaving no room for further discussion or debate. It denotes a situation, plan, or issue that has been meticulously planned and organized in advance, presenting a clear and unmistakable outcome. The term "cut" suggests that any ambiguities or uncertainties have been eliminated, while "dried" implies that everything has been finalized and made definite.
Typically, when something is described as cut and dried, it means that no alternative options or considerations need to be taken into account. It suggests that a matter has been thoroughly examined, predetermined, and made ready for execution. This expression is often used to convey a sense of certainty, straightforwardness, and lack of flexibility. It indicates that the conclusion or outcome is fixed and unchangeable, requiring no further analysis or deliberation.
In everyday usage, "cut and dried" can refer to various situations, such as a decision that has been finalized and cannot be altered, a plan that has been carefully crafted and is ready for implementation, or a course of action that has been simplified by eliminating any complexities. This idiom is commonly employed in discussions about administrative procedures, legal matters, or any situation where a predetermined solution or outcome is reached.