To figure out
Example: I need to figure out how to open this box.
Definition
"To figure out" means to understand, solve, or determine something after careful thought or analysis. It often involves discovering an answer or explanation for a problem or situation, such as in the phrase, "I need to figure out how to open this box."
Etymology
The phrase "to figure out" comes from the verb "figure," which originally meant to shape or form. Over time, it evolved to mean calculating or understanding something by thinking it through. Adding "out" emphasizes the completion or resolution of the thought process. Did you know? The phrase became common in English during the 19th century as a colloquial way to describe solving puzzles or problems.
Learn to use this expression actively
"To figure out" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (B1) - set 1", containing 123 commonly used expressions.
Would you like to not only understand these expressions, but also remember them and use them actively? Create a free account and select English as the language you want to learn.
Create a free account
