figure something out

USAGE SUMMARY

'figure something out' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you need to explain that you have to come to a conclusion or solution about something. For example, "I'm going to have to figure out how to solve this problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We'll figure something out,' " she said.

The New Yorker

We'll figure something out and get through it".

The New York Times - Sports

"Hopefully, they figure something out so I can graduate on time," he said.

The New York Times

"We need to figure something out before it reaches a tipping point," Dr. Imborek said.

The New York Times

"Don't worry, we'll figure something out," one of the veterans said.

The New York Times

I was hoping YouTube would figure something out, but I'm sick of it.

The Guardian - Tech

When you figure something out, kindly forward it to the music, newspaper and publishing industries.

The New York Times

He needs to figure something out, whether it was his coaching change or not.

The New York Times - Sports

How could you leave there and not want to figure something out?

Science Magazine

"I'm trying to figure something out," I said.

Vice

"I had to go all the way to Boston to figure something out," he says.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "figure something out", ensure the context clearly indicates what needs to be understood or resolved. For example, "We need to figure something out before it's too late" provides a clear sense of urgency and purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "figure something out" without a clear antecedent for "something". Instead of saying "We need to figure something out", specify what needs to be resolved: "We need to figure out the budget for next year".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "figure something out" functions as a phrasal verb, combining the verb "figure" with the particle "out". According to Ludwig AI, it generally expresses the process of reaching a conclusion or finding a solution. It suggests a cognitive process aimed at understanding or resolving something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

16%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "figure something out" is a common and versatile expression used to convey the need to understand, solve, or resolve a problem or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use in written English. While generally neutral in register, more formal contexts may benefit from alternatives like "determine" or "resolve". It is primarily used in News & Media, Science, and Wiki contexts. To ensure clarity, it is essential to specify the object of resolution. According to Ludwig's analysis, this phrase is a valuable tool for expressing problem-solving and understanding in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

work something out

Suggests a process of thinking or planning to achieve a solution.

sort something out

Implies organizing or clarifying something that is confusing or problematic.

solve something

Highlights the act of finding an answer or solution to a problem.

resolve something

Focuses on the act of solving or settling a problem or issue.

find a solution

Directly refers to the act of locating a resolution to a problem.

determine something

Suggests establishing or ascertaining something definitively.

understand something

Highlights the comprehension aspect of a situation or problem.

decipher something

Emphasizes the act of interpreting or understanding something obscure or difficult.

get to the bottom of something

Suggests a thorough investigation to uncover the underlying cause or truth.

discover something

Focuses on finding something previously unknown, whether it's information or a solution.

FAQs

How can I use "figure something out" in a sentence?

You can use "figure something out" to express the need to understand or solve a problem. For instance, "I need to "figure something out" before I can move forward", or "Let's "figure something out" together".

What's a more formal way to say "figure something out"?

In more formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "resolve", "ascertain", or "determine". For example, instead of "We need to "figure something out"", you might say "We must "determine a solution"".

What is the difference between "figure something out" and "solve something"?

"Figure something out" implies understanding or finding a solution through thought or investigation, while "solve something" directly means to find an answer or solution. You "figure something out" by thinking it through, and then you "solve something" by resolving it.

Is it ever incorrect to use "figure something out"?

While generally correct, using "figure something out" can be vague if the context doesn't make it clear what "something" refers to. Always ensure the context provides sufficient clarity or specify the object of resolution to avoid ambiguity.