Meat on the bones Meaning in English
expression
Definition
This expression means to add real content, details, or substance to something that was vague, basic, or incomplete.
Usage & Nuances
Primarily idiomatic and informal; often used in business, writing, or presentations to mean making something more substantial. Common collocations: 'put some meat on the bones,' 'add meat on the bones.' Not about food or literal meat.
Example Sentences
The idea is good, but it needs more meat on the bones.
basic
Can you put some meat on the bones of this report?
basic
Your story is interesting, but it needs meat on the bones to become a book.
basic
We have a plan, but until we get some meat on the bones, it's just an outline.
natural
Her presentation was OK, but it didn't have enough meat on the bones to convince the team.
natural
Let's brainstorm ideas first, then we can put some meat on the bones later.
natural