Browse all

work out

A2 neutral mixed both
In simple words

To exercise, to solve a problem, or for things to go well in the end.

Literal meaning: 'Work' applied until something is fully resolved ('out' meaning completely done) — the exercise sense comes from 'working your body out'.

Meanings

1 A2 idiomatic neutral

To exercise the body, especially at a gym or with a fitness routine.

"She works out three times a week to stay fit and manage her stress."

Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 neutral

To calculate a number, find the answer to a problem, or devise a plan.

"Can you work out how much each person owes if we split the bill equally?"

Grammar: separable
3 B1 idiomatic neutral

Of a situation or plan: to end well or develop in a satisfactory way.

"I was nervous about the move to a new city, but everything worked out better than I expected."

""Everything's gonna work out fine.""

— Tom Petty, 'Even the Losers', Damn the Torpedoes, 1979.
Grammar: inseparable
4 B2 idiomatic informal

To understand someone's character or intentions after observation.

"I can't quite work him out — one moment he's friendly, the next he ignores everyone."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

One of the most versatile phrasal verbs in English, with three very common and distinct senses. As an exercise term ('go to the gym to work out'), it is intransitive. As a calculation ('work out the cost'), it is transitive and separable. As a result ('it all worked out'), it is intransitive. Very common across all registers.

Commonly used with

gym plan cost solution fine well problem deal

Forms

Base
work out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
works out
he/she/it
Past simple
worked out
yesterday
Past participle
worked out
have + pp
-ing form
working out
continuous

Understand "work out" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Synonyms

calculate exercise figure out pan out resolve train

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "work out" on Looplines