FIGURE OUT

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📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'figure out' means to understand or solve something by thinking, often after some time of careful consideration or thought.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'figure out' means to understand or solve something by thinking, often after some time of careful consideration or thought.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
You can split this phrasal verb by inserting the object.
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Neutral
Suitable for use in both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
It requires a direct object to complete its meaning.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple figure out I need to figure out the solution by tomorrow.
Past Simple figured out He figured out the answer during the meeting.
Present Continuous figuring out They are figuring out the puzzle together.
Present Perfect have figured out We have figured out the schedule for next week.

💡 When to Use

Solving a problem
Use it when explaining the process of coming to a solution or understanding an issue.
Example: "She figured out the problem after several attempts."
Understanding something complicated
Apply it when describing the process of comprehending something complex.
Example: "He finally figured out the complex theory."
Planning or organizing
Use it for situations where you're determining the details or logistics of an arrangement.
Example: "We need to figure out our travel itinerary."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Wrong word order
❌ Wrong: Figure the problem out.
✅ Correct: Figure out the problem.
💡 Tip: Remember, object usually follows 'figure out'.
Incorrect object usage
❌ Wrong: Figure out!
✅ Correct: Figure out a solution!
💡 Tip: Always use a direct object after the verb.
Misuse in passive voice
❌ Wrong: The answer was figured out.
✅ Correct: We figured out the answer.
💡 Tip: Prefer active voice for clarity.
Practice

FIGURE 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

solve understand

Antonyms

confuse

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"It took weeks to ___ out the solution to the problem."

figure up
figure out
figure over
figure under

"Life's path is mysterious; to find truth, we must figure out the meaning of our own existence."

In Context

In October 1943, Danish physicist Niels Bohr found himself in a precarious situation during World War II. He had been an essential part of the Manhattan Project, working to figure out the principles behind the atomic bomb. As the Nazi occupation tightened its grip on Denmark, Bohr and his colleagues had to figure out a way to escape to Sweden to avoid being captured by the Germans who were eager to use his knowledge. With the help of the Danish resistance, Bohr and his family set sail on a small fishing boat across the Øresund Strait. Meanwhile, his associates tried to figure out how to smuggle the physicist’s papers and research without arousing suspicion. Miraculously, they succeeded. Once in Sweden, Bohr quickly figured out a plan to reach the United States, where he would continue his crucial work. Despite the risks and uncertainty, Bohr's ability to figure out complex schemes for both science and survival showcases his remarkable ingenuity and courage. By November 1943, Bohr was safely in Los Alamos, where he resumed his invaluable contributions to the allied efforts, proving once more his unmatched ability to figure out solutions under immense pressure.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Figure Out

What is the origin of figure out?

+
The expression 'figure out' likely originates from the 19th century as a combination of the verb 'figure', meaning to calculate, and 'out', indicating completion or solution.

Can figure out be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
'Figure out' is a versatile phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, suitable for work, education, and casual conversations.

What is the difference between figure out and solve?

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While 'figure out' often implies a process of understanding, 'solve' directly refers to resolving a problem, typically used for mathematical or technical issues.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

work outfind outunderstandsolvedetermine
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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