figure
Translation
to work out, to calculate, to conclude, to feature
Examples
I can't figure out this problem.
I can't work out this problem.
He figured the cost would be about $50.
He calculated the cost would be about $50.
We didn't figure on so many guests.
We didn't plan on so many guests.
She figures prominently in the new plan.
She features prominently in the new plan.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) out to understand or solve (sth.) I can't figure out the answer.
((that)) ... to think or conclude that... I figure that we should leave now.
((on sth.)) to expect or rely on (sth.) We didn't figure on this delay.
Similar Words
Etymology
From Latin 'figura' (a shape, form). The sense evolved from 'to shape' to 'to represent mentally' or 'calculate'.
Memory Tips
To 'figure something out' is like putting together the 'figures' (pieces/shapes) of a puzzle to understand the whole picture.