we can work something out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'we can work something out' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to come up with a compromise or solution to a problem. For example, "We both want different outcomes, but I'm sure if we work together, we can work something out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"We can work something out".

The New Yorker

I'm sure we can work something out".

The New Yorker

Maybe we can work something out".

The New York Times

"We can work something out," came the reply.

The Economist

"We are still hopeful we can work something out".

The New York Times

I'm sure we'll sit down after the season and, hopefully, we can work something out".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Hopefully, I can work something out".

The New York Times

"I just hope M.L.S. and Leverkusen can work something out so my rights belong to one party as opposed to two".

The New York Times - Sports

"I would suggest that Mr. Smith speak to his neighbor to see if they can work something out," Mr. Klein said.

The New York Times

NBC, the N.H.L.'s television partner in the United States, may offer a way for the league to gain some concessions from the I.O.C. "What the I.O.C. might say is if NBC, the rights-holder, can work something out with the N.H.L. that allows the league to use video clips, then O.K.," Desser said.

The New York Times - Sports

Then they can worry about whether he can work something out to fix the problem.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When negotiating, use "we can work something out" to show flexibility and encourage collaboration.

Common error

Ensure the "something" in "we can work something out" is either explicitly stated or clearly implied by the context. Without context, the phrase can sound noncommittal or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can work something out" functions as an expression of willingness to find a compromise or resolution to a problem. It implies that a solution is possible through collaboration and effort, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we can work something out" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey a willingness to negotiate and find a solution to a problem. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, with its most frequent appearance in news and media. The phrase serves to reassure and promote collaboration. While versatile, ensure the context makes clear what "something" refers to. Alternatives such as "we can resolve this" or "we can find a solution" offer similar sentiments depending on the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we can work everything out

Emphasizes a comprehensive resolution to all aspects of a problem.

we can work things out

A more general phrase, implying a solution to multiple unspecified issues.

we can work this out

Focuses on resolving a specific, identified problem or situation.

we can sort something out

Implies organizing or clarifying a situation to achieve a positive outcome.

we can figure something out

Focuses on using intellect and problem-solving skills to find a resolution.

we can hammer something out

Suggests a more forceful or determined effort to reach an agreement.

we can iron something out

Emphasizes smoothing out minor difficulties or imperfections to reach an agreement.

we can get something out

Indicates extracting a solution or benefit from a challenging situation.

we can make something out

Suggests creating a solution or understanding from limited information.

we can ask something out

Unrelated phrase, focuses on inviting someone on a date.

FAQs

How can I use "we can work something out" in a sentence?

You can use "we can work something out" to express a willingness to find a compromise or solution. For example, "I understand your concerns, and I believe "we can work something out" that benefits both of us."

What's the difference between "we can work something out" and "we can work things out"?

"We can work something out" often refers to a specific issue, while "we can work things out" is more general, implying multiple issues or a broader situation can be resolved.

Which is correct, "we can work something out" or "we could work something out"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "we can work something out" expresses a present ability and willingness, while "we could work something out" suggests a possibility or hypothetical situation.

What can I say instead of "we can work something out"?

You can use alternatives like "we can resolve this", "we can find a solution", or "we can reach an agreement" depending on the context.