Meaning trap
work out
develop successfully
to happen or develop in a good or successful way.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to happen or develop in a good or successful way.
Another meaning of 'work out' is 'exercise'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
Everything worked out in the end, and we caught our flight.
Sometimes, even if you face difficulties, things can work out if you stay positive.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: Don't worry, it'll work out to the best.
Say: Don't worry, it'll work out for the best.
The set phrase is 'work out for the best' — not 'to the best'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Work out' is the natural, reassuring way to say something turns out well; the formal version is cold.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
work out + outcome
- in the end
- fine
- for the best
- between them
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- work out (exercise) — Another meaning of 'work out' is 'exercise'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.