Phrasal verb
work out
Meanings
to do physical exercise, especially as a planned activity
to find an answer or solution by thinking, discussing, or calculating
to develop successfully or end in a good result
Definition
To work out means to exercise or to find a solution by thinking or calculating.
Work out is a common phrasal verb with two everyday meanings. It can mean to do physical exercise, often in a gym or as part of a routine. It can also mean to solve a problem or figure out an answer after thinking, discussing, or calculating. Context usually makes the meaning clear.
Examples
- I work out before breakfast when I have time.
- You can work out the total by adding these numbers.
- He works out at the gym three times a week.
- She finally worked out why the printer kept stopping.
- They hope the new schedule will work out for everyone.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "work out" (exercise/solve) with "work" (do a job) and say "I worked" when they mean they exercised.
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.