WORK OUT

National Parks

📖 Definition

To work out means to solve a problem, find an answer, or arrive at a conclusion after careful thought and effort. It also refers to exercising for physical fitness.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

To work out means to solve a problem, find an answer, or arrive at a conclusion after careful thought and effort. It also refers to exercising for physical fitness.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
The object can be placed between or after the verb and particle.
Register
Neutral
It can be used in both formal and informal settings.
Transitive
Yes
It requires an object to make sense, like a problem or solution.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple work out She is trying to work out the solution.
Past Simple worked out They worked out the issues yesterday.
Present Continuous working out I am working out the details for the event.
Present Perfect have worked out We have worked out the issues already.

💡 When to Use

Solving problems
Use when you are finding a solution or conclusion to a complex problem through thought or effort.
Example: "We need to work out how to reduce costs."
Developing plans
Use when finalizing plans or strategies, especially in collaborative contexts or after discussions.
Example: "The team worked out a new marketing strategy."
Physical exercise
Use when referring to exercising, typically in a gym or fitness context, to improve health or fitness.
Example: "He works out every morning at the gym."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect particle positioning
❌ Wrong: They out worked the solution.
✅ Correct: They worked out the solution.
💡 Tip: Remember, 'worked out' goes together.
Using without an object
❌ Wrong: She worked out quickly.
✅ Correct: She worked out the math problem quickly.
💡 Tip: Always work out specific problems.
Confusing with 'work in'
❌ Wrong: He works in problems every day.
✅ Correct: He works out problems every day.
💡 Tip: Solve a problem, work it out, not in.
Practice

WORK OUT - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

resolve solve

Antonyms

complicate

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"They finally managed to ___ the complicated instructions."

work in
work out
work on
work off

"To work out the complexities of life is to navigate through challenges with persistence, patience, and insight, leading to growth and understanding."

In Context

In the late 19th century, Thomas Edison embarked on a journey to invent the incandescent light bulb. Determined to work out a solution that would revolutionize the world, Edison and his team conducted thousands of experiments. Initially, they faced numerous setbacks, with filaments burning too quickly or materials proving too costly. Undeterred, Edison believed a practical solution was there if they worked it out patiently. After years of trial and error, in 1879, they finally worked out a viable design using a carbon filament. This breakthrough illuminated the path to modern electric lighting. Edison's success was a testament to relentless perseverance and a systematic approach to problem-solving. His invention not only worked out as hoped but also laid the groundwork for future innovations. By the turn of the century, electric light had begun replacing gas lighting in cities worldwide, showcasing Edison's profound impact on modern living. His story is a classic example of how dedication and determination can work out seemingly insurmountable challenges.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Work Out

What is the origin of work out?

+
The phrasal verb 'work out' originated in the 1800s, initially meaning to accomplish something through effort. Over time, its usage expanded to include both solving problems and physical exercise, reflecting its flexibility in everyday language.

Can work out be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'work out' is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In formal settings, it might refer to problem-solving, while in informal contexts, it often pertains to physical exercise or casual problem-solving.

What is the difference between work out and resolve?

+
While both 'work out' and 'resolve' involve finding solutions, 'work out' implies a process of effort and thought, often informal. 'Resolve' is more formal and definitive, indicating a solid conclusion to a dispute or issue.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

figure outsolveresolvepay offsucceed
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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