Is "figure on sth" formal or informal?

It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Can I separate "figure on" and its object?

"Figure on" is inseparable and the object follows directly.

What is the difference between "figure on" and "plan on"?

Both mean to expect, but "figure on" often implies calculation or preparation.

Can "figure on" be used with people?

It is mainly used with things, events, or outcomes, not directly with people.

What tense can I use with "figure on"?

You can use it in any tense depending on the context (figure, figured, figuring).

Figure on sth Meaning / Examples / How to Use

Sep 25, 2024

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by

Michael Carter

in English Phrasal Verbs

What Does “Figure on sth” Mean?

“Figure on sth” means to expect or plan for something to happen or be needed. It is often used when considering future events or outcomes.

Introduction

The phrase “figure on sth” is a common phrasal verb in English that expresses the idea of expecting or planning for something. When you figure on something, you rely on it happening or include it in your plans. This phrase is useful in both formal and informal contexts, especially when discussing arrangements, budgets, or future events. Understanding the figure on sth meaning helps you communicate expectations clearly and make better plans. For example, if you figure on a meeting lasting two hours, you are planning your schedule around that time.

Quick Info Box

Phrasal verb: figure on something
Type: transitive
Level: B2
Short meaning: to expect or plan for something

Structure (Grammar Rules)

“Figure on sth” is a transitive phrasal verb and is inseparable. This means the object always comes after the phrasal verb and cannot be placed in the middle.

Correct: figure on the cost
Incorrect: figure the cost on

Patterns:

Subject + figure on + noun/pronoun
We figure on + event/expense/time

How to Use “Figure on sth”?

Use “figure on sth” when you want to express that you expect or plan for something. It is often used in contexts involving time, money, or events. For example, you might figure on a certain amount of money to pay for a trip or figure on a delay in a schedule. It helps to communicate your assumptions clearly.

Examples

Here are some natural sentences using “figure on sth”:

We figure on finishing the project by next month.
They figured on about $500 for the repairs.
She figures on arriving around 7 p.m.
Don’t figure on the weather being perfect for the picnic.
He figured on needing extra help for the event.

These examples show how “figure on sth” helps express expectations or plans clearly.

Common Mistakes

Sometimes learners confuse the word order or use the wrong preposition. Here are some common errors:

Incorrect: I figure the meeting on at 3 pm.
Correct: I figure on the meeting at 3 pm.
Incorrect: She figures about $200 on the budget.
Correct: She figures on about $200 for the budget.

Remember, “figure on” is inseparable and must be followed directly by the object.

Differences / Synonyms

Other phrases like “count on,” “plan on,” and “expect” are similar but have slight differences:

Count on: Means to rely on someone or something for support or help.
Plan on: Similar to “figure on,” used when making plans.
Expect: More formal, focuses on anticipating something.

“Figure on” often emphasizes the practical aspect of including something in calculations or plans.

Common Collocations

Here are common objects used with “figure on” and their meanings:

Figure on time: Expect a certain amount of time.
Figure on money/cost: Plan or expect expenses.
Figure on help/support: Expect assistance.
Figure on delays: Expect something to be late.
Figure on results: Expect certain outcomes.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Here are related phrasal verbs of figure on sth:

Real-life Dialogue

Here is a short conversation using “figure on sth”:

Anna: Do you figure on finishing the report today?

John: Yes, I figure on having it done by 5 p.m.

Anna: Great! That will help us prepare for the meeting.

Practice

Try to fill in the blanks with the correct form of “figure on”:

We _______ the delivery arriving by Friday.
She didn’t _______ any extra expenses.
They _______ needing about 10 volunteers for the event.
I _______ the project taking two weeks to complete.

FAQs

Q: Is “figure on sth” formal or informal?
A: It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
Q: Can I separate “figure on” and its object?
A: No, “figure on” is inseparable and the object follows directly.
Q: What is the difference between “figure on” and “plan on”?
A: Both mean to expect, but “figure on” often implies calculation or preparation.
Q: Can “figure on” be used with people?
A: It is mainly used with things, events, or outcomes, not directly with people.
Q: What tense can I use with “figure on”?
A: You can use it in any tense depending on the context (figure, figured, figuring).