worked out a method

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "worked out a method" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the process of developing or finding a solution to a problem or task. Example: "After several weeks of research, the team finally worked out a method to improve the efficiency of the production line."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Over the years, Feinberg has worked out a method for dealing with sprawling, complex cases, the key element of which he describes as stripping away the complexities.

The New Yorker

He was only recently dropped, and still hasn't worked out a method to get off strike, even if his front foot play has improved.

The Guardian - Sport

Later he informally appointed himself business manager of the ideas Fermi and his six associates, who had worked out a method of atomic fission in 1935.

The New Yorker

In other words, Schoenberg found himself in a world in which everything seemed possible, found it paralyzing, and worked out a method of complex constraint that permitted him to recapitulate and re-use his musical history in a modern way.

The New Yorker

These stations were meant to study volcanic hot spots — nothing to do with the hum — but the team worked out a method to clean the data of ocean currents, waves, glitches and other noise.

The Washington Post

Iain's postdoc had worked out a method for cheaply growing the obscene quantities of proteins required for NMR experiments and I'd go down to see what he was up to and collect the tiny amounts we needed for our cell biology experiments.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Bootle, of course, won the Wolfson Economics prize for working out a method as to how this could happen.

The Guardian

AIDS organizations around the city will work out a method of categorizing complaints and funneling them through the plaintiffs' lawyers to Judge Pollack, said Armen Merjian, a staff lawyer for Housing Works, which brought the lawsuit.

The New York Times

By flying such instru ments together, the scientists will be measuring the same phenomenon simulaneously and will be able to compare find ings to work out a method of intercalibration that could re sult in more precise weather forecasting.

The New York Times

Following honest exchanges in a team meeting on Tuesday, all of England's batsmen returned to net practice hoping to work out a method of playing the slower bowlers.

BBC

It was Johnson's first Test since he failed to take any wickets against India in Delhi in March, but England captain Alastair Cook is confident his side will work out a method to succeed against the Queenslander.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "worked out a method", ensure it's followed by a clear explanation of the method itself. This provides context and enhances understanding for the reader.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that you "worked out a method" without detailing what the method entails. Always provide specific steps or principles involved in the method to give the reader a comprehensive understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "worked out a method" primarily functions as a verbal phrase that indicates the process of developing or discovering a systematic approach to address a specific challenge or problem. Ludwig AI confirms that this usage is grammatically correct and common.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "worked out a method" is a verbal phrase used to describe the development or discovery of a systematic approach to solve a problem. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and finds usage across diverse contexts, primarily in Science and News & Media. While "worked out a method" is a correct and usable phrase, clarity is key. Always describe the method itself when using it, and consider alternatives like "developed a technique" or "formulated an approach" for nuanced communication. Its neutral register and versatility make it a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

developed a technique

Focuses on the creation of a specific technique, suggesting a more formalized approach.

formulated an approach

Highlights a systematic and structured way of dealing with something.

devised a plan

Implies a strategy or scheme to achieve a particular goal.

established a procedure

Suggests creating a set of formal steps to be followed.

pioneered a strategy

Emphasizes innovation and being the first to create a specific strategy.

originated a system

Implies the creation of a structured and organized set of procedures or practices.

innovated a solution

Focuses on creating a new and improved answer to a problem.

contrived a way

Suggests cleverly or skillfully creating a solution, often when it seems difficult.

fashioned a solution

Highlights the act of carefully and skillfully creating a solution to a problem.

concocted a scheme

Suggests inventiveness and sometimes implies a slightly dubious or unconventional plan.

FAQs

How can I use "worked out a method" in a sentence?

You can use "worked out a method" to describe the process of discovering or creating a systematic approach to solve a problem. For instance, "The scientists "worked out a method" for analyzing DNA samples more efficiently."

What are some alternatives to "worked out a method"?

Alternatives include "developed a technique", "devised a plan", or "formulated an approach". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nature of the solution being described.

Is it correct to say "worked out a method" or should I use a different verb?

"Worked out a method" is a correct and commonly used phrase. Other suitable verbs include "developed", "devised", or "formulated", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "worked out a method" and "came up with a method"?

"Worked out a method" suggests a more deliberate and effortful process of developing a solution, while "came up with a method" implies a more spontaneous or intuitive discovery. The choice depends on whether the solution was the result of careful work or a sudden insight.