1.
If you work out a solution to a problem or mystery, you manage to find the solution by thinking or talking about it.
Negotiators are due to meet later today to work out a compromise...
It took me some time to work out what was causing this...
'How will you contact me?'-'We haven't worked that out yet.'
= figure out
PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V P wh, V n P
•
If you have something all worked out, you have thought about it carefully, and know exactly what you are going to do or exactly what you want.
I had the ideal man all worked out in my mind.
PHRASE: have inflects
2.
If you work out the answer to a mathematical problem, you calculate it.
It is proving hard to work out the value of bankrupt firms' assets...
When asked what a ?40.35 meal for five people would cost each diner, they were unable to work it out.
= calculate
PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V n P
3.
If something works out at a particular amount, it is calculated to be that amount after all the facts and figures have been considered.
The price per pound works out at ?3.20...
It will probably work out cheaper to hire a van and move your own things.
PHRASAL VERB: V P at amount, V P adj
4.
If a situation works out well or works out, it happens or progresses in a satisfactory way.
Things just didn't work out as planned...
One of the ways people experience loss is when relationships don't work out.
PHRASAL VERB: V P prep/adv, V P
5.
If a process works itself out, it reaches a conclusion or satisfactory end.
People involved in it think it's a nightmare, but I'm sure it will work itself out.
PHRASAL VERB: V pron-refl P
6.
If you work out your service or your notice, you continue to work at your job until you have completed a specified period of time.
There was an interim before her successor actually came because she had to work out her notice.
PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), also V n P
7.
If you work out, you do physical exercises in order to make your body fit and strong.
Work out at a gym or swim twice a week.
= exercise
PHRASAL VERB: V P
8.