ˈfɪɡjər aʊt
neutral
beginner
- Base verb:
- figure
- Particle:
- out
- Separable:
- Yes
What does "figure out" mean?
- To solve a problem or understand something
- To calculate or work out an amount
- To understand why someone behaves in a certain way
Examples
- I can't figure out how to use this app.
- We need to figure out a solution to this problem.
- I just can't figure him out; he's so unpredictable!
- Let me figure out how much we owe.
- Scientists are trying to figure out what caused the disease.
How to use it
Very common in North American English. 'I'll figure it out' is a standard response when facing a challenge. Similar to 'work out' but more common in American/Canadian English.
Word order
Object can go between: 'figure the problem out' or after: 'figure out the problem'. Pronouns must go between: 'figure it out'.
Similar expressions
solve
understand
calculate
work out
comprehend
Opposites
confuse
misunderstand
Related phrasal verbs
- figure in
To include something in a calculation or plan
- get out
To leave a place, room, or vehicle
- turn out
To have a particular result or end in a certain way
- go out
To leave your home for social activities or entertainment
- give out
To distribute something to multiple people
- bring out
To produce and release a new product, book, or album
Use it in a practice answer
Try "figure out" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.