work out a compromise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "work out a compromise" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when two people or groups of people need to come to an agreement and reach a middle ground. For example, "The two sides have been at odds with each other for weeks, but they finally managed to work out a compromise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But I'm always eager to work out a compromise".

The New York Times - Arts

It didn't take long to work out a compromise.

The New York Times

The Senate and House must now go into conference to work out a compromise.

The Economist

They need to sit down and -- and work out a compromise.

The New York Times

Since the fall, Oracle and commission investigators have been trying to work out a compromise.

The New York Times

The two versions will now go to a committee tasked to work out a compromise.

The New York Times

Representative Moak said he still hoped to work out a compromise with the church groups.

The New York Times

House and Senate negotiators will now meet to work out a compromise version.

The New York Times

She instructed both sides to meet to work out a compromise.

The New York Times

Mr. Powell has repeatedly praised Russia and Germany for trying to work out a compromise.

The New York Times

Still, Mr. Bloomberg should give Mr. Pataki a chance to work out a compromise.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "work out a compromise", ensure that all parties involved are willing to concede some points to reach an agreement.

Common error

Avoid framing a compromise as a victory for one side. True compromise requires mutual concessions and benefits for all parties involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "work out a compromise" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating an action aimed at reaching an agreement. It describes the active process of negotiating and finding a mutually acceptable solution. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "work out a compromise" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that describes the process of reaching an agreement where all parties involved make concessions. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, including news, business, and general conversation. When aiming to "work out a compromise", it's essential to ensure all parties are willing to negotiate and that the final agreement is perceived as fair by everyone involved. Alternatives include "reach a settlement" and "find common ground", each with subtle differences in emphasis. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively use "work out a compromise" in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Reach a settlement

Focuses on resolving a dispute, often in a legal or formal context.

Find common ground

Emphasizes the discovery of shared interests or beliefs as a basis for agreement.

Strike a balance

Highlights the need to equalize differing needs and concerns.

Come to terms

Suggests a final agreement after a period of negotiation.

Arrive at a consensus

Implies a broader agreement involving more parties or a general agreement.

Settle differences

Addresses the resolution of disagreements that stand in the way of an accord.

Negotiate an agreement

Underlines the bargaining process involved to find a solution.

Find a middle ground

Highlights the process of finding the position between two extremes.

Achieve reconciliation

Focuses on restoring amicable relations after conflict.

Forge a deal

Emphasizes the creation of an agreement, often in business or political contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "work out a compromise" in a sentence?

You can use "work out a compromise" when describing the process of reaching an agreement where each party gives up something. For instance, "The union and the company managed to "work out a compromise" after lengthy negotiations."

What's the difference between "work out a compromise" and "reach a settlement"?

"Work out a compromise" implies a mutual adjustment to find a common ground, whereas "reach a settlement" often refers to resolving a dispute, frequently in a legal context, typically meaning that the problem is resolved.

Which is correct, "work out a compromise" or "work at a compromise"?

"Work out a compromise" is the correct and commonly used form. "Work at a compromise" is less idiomatic.

What are some situations where you might need to "work out a compromise"?

You might need to ""work out a compromise"" in business negotiations, political debates, personal relationships, or any situation where conflicting interests need to be resolved.