Phrasal Verb: Figure out

This is a phrasal verb.

It has two parts: figure and out.

They work together as one team.

You cannot just say figure alone.

You need both words to get the meaning.

In grammar, we call this a separable verb.

That means you can put words in the middle.

You can also keep the words together.

Think of it like a sandwich.

The bread is figure and out.

The meat is the thing you solve.

You can put the meat in the middle.

Or you can put it after the bread.

Both ways are usually okay.

But there is one special rule for pronouns.

We will look at that very soon.

1. 1Using this phrase is like building a tower.
2. 2You follow these steps:
3. 3Start with the person (the subject).
4. 4Choose the correct time (the tense).
5. 5Add the word figure.
6. 6Decide where to put your object.
7. 7Add the word out.
8. 8Example 1: I figure out the answer.
9. 9Example 2: I figure the answer out.
10. 10Example 3: I figure it out.
11. 11Notice that it must go in the middle.
12. 12This is the most important part of the pattern.

Use figure out when you use your brain.

Imagine you are at a new restaurant.

The menu is in a different language.

You look at the pictures carefully.

You try to figure out what the soup is.

You are using logic to understand.

Use it for math problems at school.

I need to figure out this equation.

Use it for directions when you are lost.

We must figure out the way home.

Use it for people's behavior too.

I can't figure out why he is angry.

It is perfect for any situation with a solution.

If there is a 'Why' or a 'How', use it!

Do not use it for physical discovery.

If you find a coin on the street, you find it.

You did not use your brain to solve it.

You just saw it with your eyes.

If you find your lost keys, you find them.

You only figure out where they were.

That involves thinking about your past steps.

So, find is for eyes.

Figure out is for the brain.

Do not use it for simple feelings either.

You don't figure out happy.

You just feel happy.

Keep it for problems and puzzles.

Think of it like a grammar traffic light.

Only go when there is a problem to solve!

The biggest mistake is the 'it' trap.

You must say figure it out.

Never say figure out it.

It sounds very strange to native speakers.

It is like wearing your shoes on your hands.

Another mistake is forgetting the word out.

I figured the answer is not correct.

You need the out to complete the meaning.

Without out, the verb figure means a shape.

Or it means a number in a report.

So, always keep the pair together.

They are best friends.

Yes, even native speakers mess this up sometimes!

But you will be better than them.

Many people confuse figure out and find out.

They sound similar but are different tools.

Find out is about getting new information.

Someone tells you a secret.

You find out the secret.

You did not have to think hard.

You just listened to the news.

Figure out is about your own effort.

You solve the secret yourself.

You look at clues and use logic.

Think of find out as a gift.

Think of figure out as a trophy.

You worked for the trophy!