The idiom "figure it out" means solving a problem, understanding something, or finding an answer using one's intelligence and resources. It is often used as a command or a suggestion to someone facing difficulty or confusion.

In short:

• It means to solve, understand, or find something by oneself.

What Does "Figure It Out" Mean?

The idiom "figure it out" means discovering or determining something using reasoning, logic, or common sense. It can refer to solving a problem, understanding a situation, finding an answer, deciding, or clearing up confusion. It can also imply that someone has to do something alone, without help or guidance from others.

Where Does "Figure It Out" Come From?

The origin of the idiom "figure it out" seems to come from the early 1900s. It is a relatively new saying, and there is no written reference to the first use of the expression. However, language experts believe it came into being during the late 1800s concerning problem-solving. It is derived from the verb "figure," which comes from the Latin word "figura," which gave rise to other terms such as"figure of speech" and "figureheads."

10 Examples of "Figure It Out" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how this idiom can be used in different sentences:

• We need to figure it out together as a team.
• Pro tip: If you're lost, use a map to figure it out.
• No worries. I'll give you some time to figure it out.
• I can't solve this math problem. I must figure it out.
• Can you help me figure it out? I got lost in the sauce.
• She's trying hard to figure it out, but it's challenging.
• No mean feat. He's determined to figure it out on his own.
• Fret not. It may take a while, but I'll figure it out eventually.
• Please figure it out before the meeting starts. Thanks so much!
• I don't know how to fix this computer, but I'll try to figure it out.

Examples of "Figure It Out" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this idiom has been used in various forms of pop culture:

• In the movie The Matrix (1999), the character Morpheus says to Neo: "I can only show you the door. You're the one that has to walk through it." This means Neo has to "figure out" the truth about his reality.
• In the TV show Friends (1994-2004), the character Rachel tells Ross, "You figure it out. You do the math." This means that Ross has to realize that he made a mistake by cheating on Rachel and that she is angry with him.
• In the song "Figure It Out" by Royal Blood (2014), the singer says: "Nothing here to see, just a kid like me trying to cut some teeth, trying to figure it out." This means the singer is trying to understand his feelings and emotions, especially about a girl he likes.
• "Figure It Out" is a comedy pilot film directed by Tim Kirkpatrick. The film follows the story of a young and cocky Marine who gets discharged from the military earlier than expected and moves in with three eccentric adults trying to "figure out" their lives. The film aims to shed light on the realities and challenges of reintegration for veterans and the difficulties and joys of young adulthood.

Other Ways to Say "Figure It Out"

Here are some synonyms and alternative expressions for this idiom:

• Get it
• Solve it
• Crack it
• Grasp it
• Find out
• Unravel it
• Sort it out
• Discover it
• Decipher it
• Work it out

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Figure It Out"

Here are some common questions that people might have about this idiom:

• What does "figure it out" mean?

The idiom "figure it out" means solving a problem, understanding something, or finding an answer using one's intelligence and resources. It is often used as a command or a suggestion to someone facing difficulty or confusion.

• What is the origin of the phrase "figure it out"?

The origin of the idiom "figure it out" seems to come from the early 1900s. It is a relatively new saying, and there is no written reference to the first use of the expression. However, language experts believe it came into being during the late 1800s concerning problem-solving.

• What is the difference between "figure it out" and "work it out"?

Both phrases mean solving a problem or understanding something, but they have slightly different nuances. "Figure it out" implies that the solution or answer already exists or is given, and the person needs to use their intelligence or logic to find it. "Work it out" implies that the solution or answer is not apparent, and the person needs to use their effort or creativity to create it.

• Is "figure it out" formal or informal?

The idiom "figure it out" is generally considered informal, as it is mostly used in spoken or casual written language. It is not usually used in formal or academic contexts, where more precise or technical terms are preferred.

• Is "figure it out" a common idiom in English?

Yes, "figure it out" is a very common idiom in English and is often used in both informal and formal settings.

• Can "figure it out" be used in different contexts?

Yes, this idiom can be used in various contexts, such as in problem-solving, decision-making, or understanding complex issues.

• Is "figure it out" synonymous with "solve"?

Yes, "figure it out" is often used interchangeably with "solve," as both imply finding a solution to a problem.

• Is there an opposite idiom to "figure it out"?

The opposite of "figure it out" would be "give up" or "throw in the towel," which implies giving up on solving a problem.

• Can "figure it out" apply to personal or emotional situations?

Yes, "figure it out" can be used in personal or emotional contexts when someone is trying to understand or cope with their feelings or issues.

• What should I do if I can't "figure it out"?

If you're struggling to "figure it out" on your own, it's perfectly acceptable to seek help or advice from others, whether it's friends, family, or professionals. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can lead to a solution.

Final Thoughts About "Figure It Out"

The idiom "figure it out" is a common and valuable expression in English that can convey different meanings depending on the speaker's context and tone. It can mean solving, understanding, or finding something by oneself or showing that the speaker does not want to help or explain something to someone else.

Key points to remember about the idiom:

• It originated from the verb "figure," which means calculating, estimating, or reasoning.
• It can be used as a command or a suggestion with positive, neutral, or negative connotations.
• It has appeared in various forms of popular culture, such as songs, TV shows, movies, etc.
• It has many synonyms and antonyms, depending on the speaker's context and tone.
• It is generally considered informal and not used in formal or academic contexts.