figure out

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Explanation of "Figure Out"

Definition: The phrase "figure out" is a verb that means to find the solution to a problem or question or to understand something. It’s often used when you are trying to solve a puzzle, understand information, or make sense of a situation.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "figure out" when you are working on problems, trying to understand someone's meaning, or making a decision. It is often followed by a noun or a pronoun that indicates what you are trying to solve or understand.

Examples:

1. Finding a Solution:

   • "I need to figure out how to fix my bicycle."
   • "Can you help me figure out this math problem?"

2. Understanding Meaning:

   • "I couldn’t figure out what she meant when she said that."
   • "Did you figure out the answer to the riddle?"

Advanced Usage:

In more complex situations, "figure out" can refer to understanding emotions or relationships: - "After talking to him, I finally figured out why he was upset." - "It took me a while to figure out the dynamics of the team."

Word Variants:

• Figured out (past tense): "I figured out the solution yesterday."
• Figuring out (present participle): "I am figuring out my schedule for next week."

Different Meanings:

While "figure out" primarily means to solve or understand, it can also imply: - To calculate: "I need to figure out my expenses for the month." - To come to a conclusion: "After some thought, I figured out that I want to change my career."

Synonyms:

• Solve
• Determine
• Understand
• Work out
• Decipher

Idioms and Related Phrasal Verbs:

• Work out: Similar in meaning, often used in a context where you are trying to come to a solution (e.g., "We need to work out our differences.")
• Sort out: Often used when organizing or resolving issues (e.g., "Let’s sort out the details of the plan.")
• Get the hang of: To understand how to do something (e.g., "It took me a while to get the hang of driving.")

Summary:

"Figure out" is a versatile phrase that is commonly used in English. It helps express the process of solving problems and understanding concepts.

Academic

Verb

1. find the solution to (a problem or question) or understand the meaning of
   • did you solve the problem?
   • Work out your problems with the boss
   • this unpleasant situation isn't going to work itself out
   • did you get it?
   • Did you get my meaning?
   • He could not work the math problem

Synonyms

• solve
• work out
• puzzle out
• lick
• work