work out

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/ˌwɝːk ˈaʊt/
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To put effort into the body, a problem, or a situation until a result appears.
Practice using work out in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • Our plan did not work out, so we tried another one.
  • He started working out to feel stronger.
  • The mechanic worked out what was causing the noise.
  • We worked out together in the park.
  • She works out three times a week.

Similar words

determine
hit the gym
keep fit
devise
figure out
exercise
succeed
calculate
train
go well

Meanings

Exercise the body

fitness
neutral
To exercise, especially through a planned session that builds fitness or strength.

Examples

  • I work out at the gym before breakfast.
  • She works out three times a week.
  • We worked out together in the park.
  • He started working out to feel stronger.
  • This short routine lets me work out at home.

Similar words

exercise
train
keep fit
hit the gym

Solve, understand, or plan

problems
neutral
To reach an answer by thinking, calculating, or discussing, including understanding a cause or agreeing on a plan.

Examples

  • Can you work out how much we each owe?
  • I could not work out why the door was locked.
  • We worked out a route that avoids the traffic.
  • The mechanic worked out what was causing the noise.
  • They sat down to work out the details of the trip.

Similar words

figure out
solve
calculate
determine
devise

Develop successfully

outcomes
informal
To develop in a successful or satisfactory way, often after uncertainty.

Examples

  • Do not worry, things will work out in the end.
  • The new arrangement worked out better than expected.
  • Our plan did not work out, so we tried another one.
  • I hope the new job works out for you.
  • The deal worked out well for both sides.

Similar words

turn out well
succeed
come together
go well

Etymology

Built from work, meaning to make an effort, and out, which suggests reaching a result or completion. Its fitness use treats exercise as sustained physical work.

FAQ

What does work out mean?

It can mean to exercise, find an answer or plan, or develop successfully.

Does work out mean exercise?

Yes. To work out is to do physical exercise, often as a planned session.

What does work out a problem mean?

It means to solve the problem by thinking, calculating, or discussing it.

What does it worked out mean?

It means the situation ended successfully or satisfactorily.

Can work out mean understand?

Yes. “I cannot work it out” means “I cannot understand or solve it.”

What is the past form of work out?

The past form is worked out.

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