work out

To understand something by thinking about it carefully.

• I cannot work out these instructions.
• She worked out what the strange message meant.
• Have you worked out how this machine works?

How to use it: work something out (These instructions are confusing, but we will work them out.); work out how/why… (I worked out why the door would not open.)

Similar words: figure out, understand

Common phrases: work out something, work out why

To exercise to become fitter or stronger, often at a gym.

• I work out every morning.
• We worked out together at the gym yesterday.
• How often do you work out with weights?

How to use it: work out at/in somewhere (She works out at the gym near her office.)

Similar words: exercise, train

Common phrases: work out regularly, work out together, work out daily

To find a number or amount by using mathematics.

• Work out the total cost.
• I worked out the answer in my head.
• Have you worked out how much each person should pay?

How to use it: work something out (We worked the total out together.); work out how much… (Can you work out how much we owe?)

Similar words: calculate

Common phrases: work out costs, work out something

To create or arrange something by thinking, discussing, or making an effort.

• Let us work out a plan.
• They worked out an agreement after several meetings.
• We are working out the details with our neighbours.

How to use it: work something out with someone (We worked a payment plan out with the bank.)

Similar words: devise, arrange, hammer out

Common phrases: work out details, work out something

To decide what you think or want after considering something.

• I need to work out what I want.
• She still has not worked out whether she likes the job.
• Have you worked out which option you prefer?

How to use it: work out if/whether… (I am trying to work out whether I want to stay.); work out what… (We need to work out what we really want.)

Similar words: decide, figure out

Common phrases: work out whether, work out preferences

If a calculation does this, it gives a correct result with no mistakes.

• The calculation works out correctly.
• I checked the sum twice, but it still would not work out.
• Do these figures work out when you include the delivery charge?

Similar words: add up

Common phrases: work out correctly, work out exactly