"don't know" vs "can't figure out"

Question

"don't know" vs "can't figure out"

Both "can't figure out" and "don't know" are correct phrases, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Can't figure out" is used when someone is struggling to understand or solve something, while "don't know" is a more general expression of not having information or knowledge about something.

Last Updated: April 01, 2024

Use "don't know" when you want to indicate that you lack information or knowledge about a particular topic or question. It is a general expression of uncertainty or ignorance.

Examples:

I don't know the answer to that question.
Do you know where my keys are? I don't know.
She doesn't know how to speak French.

Alternatives:

have no idea
not aware of
unfamiliar with

Use "can't figure out" when you are struggling to understand or solve a problem or situation. It implies a sense of confusion or difficulty in finding a solution.

Examples:

I can't figure out how to solve this math problem.
She can't figure out why her computer keeps crashing.
They can't figure out how to fix the leak in the roof.

Alternatives:

can't understand
can't solve
can't comprehend

Answer 1

don't know

This phrase is correct and commonly used to express a lack of information or knowledge about something.

Answer 2

can't figure out

This phrase is correct and commonly used when someone is having difficulty understanding or solving something.