What are the definitions of “work out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1End nicely.
Things were going wrong for them but fortunately it all WORKED OUT in the end.
- 2Find the answer or solution.
I couldn't WORK OUT all the answers to the crossword puzzle.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “work out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb work out is to find the answer or solution to a problem or question. It is often used when talking about solving math problems, figuring out puzzles, or understanding complex situations.
What are the different verb forms of “work out”?
| Root Verb | work out |
| Third Person Singular Present | works out |
| Present Participle | working out |
| Simple Past | worked out |
| Past Participle | worked out |
Example
Can you work out this math problem for me?
Example
She works out the solution to the puzzle quickly.
Example
He is working out the best way to approach the situation.
Example
Yesterday, they worked out the answer to the riddle.
Example
The problem has been worked out, and we can move forward.
What kind of phrasal verb is “work out”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“work out” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She worked out the answer to the question.
Example
He worked the problem out quickly.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“work out” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She worked out the answer to the question.
Example
He worked the problem out quickly.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “work out”?
Good things to know
Does “work out” have an informal or formal tone?
Work out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
