1348 Work out (a problem/at the gym)

Explanation

To solve a problem or find a solution through effort or calculation.
To engage in physical exercise, typically at a gym.
Can also mean to develop or progress in a particular way (I hope things work out for you).

Origin

Solve sense: Likely from the idea of 'working' through the details until the solution comes 'out' or becomes clear. Appears around the mid-19th century.
Exercise sense: Emerged in the mid-20th century. Work refers to physical exertion. Out might imply expending energy or completing a session.
Develop/progress sense: Relates to things unfolding or resolving over time.

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

(Solve): Nut out (Aus/NZ slang: figure out/solve, especially a problem)
(Exercise): Hit the gym, Pump iron (Lift weights), Get a sweat on
(Develop/Progress): Come good (Aus/NZ slang: turn out well eventually)

Vulgar/Emphatic:

(Solve, expressing difficulty): We need to work this fucking mess out.
(Exercise, expressing intensity): Work my ass off (at the gym)
(Develop/Progress, expressing frustration): I hope this shit works out.

Milder/Standard:

(Solve): Devise, Determine
(Exercise): Engage in physical activity (Formal)
(Develop/Progress): Reach a satisfactory conclusion

Situational Appropriateness

All meanings are common in informal and semi-formal settings.
'Solve' and 'exercise' meanings are standard in everyday English.
'Develop/progress' meaning is also very common in conversation.

Misunderstanding Warnings

The main issue is the multiple meanings. Context is key: discussing a problem, fitness, or the outcome of a situation. Let's work out needs context – are we solving something or exercising?

Examples

(Solve): We need to work out a budget for this project.
(Solve): Can you work out the answer to this math problem?
(Exercise): I try to work out three times a week.
(Exercise): She's gone to work out at the gym.
(Develop/Progress): Don't worry, everything will work out in the end.
(Develop/Progress): Their relationship didn't work out.

Dialogue

Dialogue 1 (Solve):

Manager: We have a scheduling conflict for the conference room.

Assistant: Okay, let's look at the calendar. We can work out a solution.

Manager: Maybe we can move the marketing meeting? Let's try to work it out.

Dialogue 2 (Exercise):

Chris: I feel so sluggish lately.

Jen: You should try working out! It really boosts your energy.

Chris: Yeah? What do you do when you work out?

Jen: I usually do a mix of cardio and weights at the gym.

Response Patterns

(To solving): Okay, let's try., Do you have any ideas?, It might take some time.
(To exercising): That's great!, What kind of workout do you do?, Good for you!
(To developing): I hope so too., Thanks, I appreciate it., We'll see.

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After suggesting working out a problem:

Begin brainstorming or calculating.
Ask for input or data needed.

After someone mentions working out (exercise):

Ask about their routine, gym, or goals.
Share your own fitness habits.

After expressing hope that things will work out:

Offer support or encouragement.
Ask if there's anything you can do to help.

Conversation Starter

Asking How often do you work out? or Did you work out the problem? can be part of ongoing conversations. Not typically a standalone opener unless context is established (e.g., at a gym).

Intonation

Stress falls on work, out, and the object (problem/exercise) or implied situation.
(Solve): Let's WORK OUT a PLAN.
(Exercise): He WORKS OUT every MORNING.
(Develop): I hope it WORKS OUT. (Often sounds hopeful or reassuring)

Generation Differences

Widely used across generations. Slang for exercise (hit the gym, pump iron) might vary in popularity.

Regional Variations

Standard in all major English-speaking regions. Figure out might be slightly more common than work out for 'solve' in the US, but both are used.

Turn down (an offer/volume)

🎲 Bring up (a topic/child)