figure out

verb

figured out; figuring out; figures out

transitive verb

1
: discover, determine
try to figure out a way to do it
2
: solve, fathom
figure out a problem

Examples of figure out in a Sentence

a book of brainteasers that even a really clever person won't have an easy time figuring out
Recent Examples on the Web To figure out if that’s what’s going on, Dr. Davis recommends getting a patch test, which involves using tiny stickers to expose your skin to possible triggers. Alice Oglethorpe, SELF, 10 May 2024 Newsom and lawmakers are also figuring out how to cope with costs tied to the healthcare wage increase, which state officials have estimated could cost $4 billion in its first year of implementation. Mackenzie Mays, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2024 There are meetings with designers, lots of fittings, and sessions with the glam team figuring out the best hair, makeup, and manicure to go with the final ensemble. Kara Nesvig, Allure, 9 May 2024 But these groups are still in the early phases of figuring out what guidelines are necessary, while Big Tech companies race to create bigger and better technologies. Rachyl Jones, Fortune, 8 May 2024 Many countries have figured out how to mitigate feelings of stress and isolation for new parents. Eliana Dockterman, TIME, 8 May 2024 Lana only figures out her ex is a soon-to-be in-law at the destination wedding. Eric Andersson, Peoplemag, 8 May 2024 Some parents have expressed concerns their kids will have to travel farther and figure out how to safely navigate busy intersections. Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 8 May 2024 According to reports by multiple news outlets, the National Transportation Board (NTSB) and the Federal Road Administration (FRA) are currently investigating to figure out what lead to the train derailment. Bianca Harris, USA TODAY, 27 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'figure out.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of figure out was in 1600

Dictionary Entries Near figure out

Cite this Entry

“Figure out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/figure%20out. Accessed 16 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

figure out

verb
1
: find out, discover
try to figure out a way to do it
2
: solve
figure out a problem

More from Merriam-Webster on figure out

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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