Figure out Meaning and Definition
Figure out
Pronunciation
/ˈfɪdʒər ɒt/
Part of Speech
Noun/Verb
Definition
The act of understanding or clarifying a problem, idea, or situation.
Examples
- After thinking for a while, she figured out the solution to the puzzle.
- Trying to understand the instructions, he had to figure out how to assemble the furniture.
- The detectives worked tirelessly to figure out the identity of the culprit.
- The math problem was tricky, but with some effort, the student figured out the answer.
- The company’s financial struggles were complex, but the CEO vowed to figure out a solution.
Synonyms
- Solve
- Unravel
- Decipher
Antonyms
- Misunderstand
- Disregard
Etymology
The word “figure” comes from the Old French “figurer,” meaning “to make a shape” or “to form an image.” The verb “to figure out” emerged in the late 19th century.
Usage Notes
The verb “to figure out” is often used in informal contexts to convey the idea of understanding or solving a problem.
Cultural References
Figuring out is a common theme in literature, such as in Sherlock Holmes stories, where the detective solves complex mysteries.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Figuring out what makes someone tick, or getting to the bottom of something, are idiomatic expressions related to this verb.
Related Words or Phrases
- Solve
- Unravel
- Decipher
- Understand
Collocations
Figuring out a puzzle, a mystery, or a problem are common collocations with this verb.
Frequency of Use
The verb “to figure out” is frequently used in everyday conversation, often in informal settings.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings include “figger out,” “figureed out,” and “figgered out.”