If something doesn't work vs If something doesn't work out

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'If something doesn't work' is used when referring to a specific task or action that is not successful. On the other hand, 'if something doesn't work out' is used when referring to a plan, idea, or relationship that fails to materialize or succeed.

Last updated: March 24, 2024 • 916 views

If something doesn't work

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when referring to a specific task or action that is not successful. It implies that the intended outcome was not achieved.

Examples:

I tried to fix the computer, but if something doesn't work, I'll call a technician.
If something doesn't work, we'll need to come up with an alternative solution.

Show examples from the web [+]

Around here, if something doesn't work, I got a problem,
If something doesn't work, you change it, you have to help me!

Alternatives:

if something fails
if something is unsuccessful
if something doesn't function
if something doesn't operate
if something doesn't succeed

If something doesn't work out

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when referring to a plan, idea, or relationship that fails to materialize or succeed. It implies that the expected or desired outcome did not happen.

Examples:

I had a great plan, but if something doesn't work out, I'll have to come up with a new one.
If something doesn't work out between them, they may need to reconsider their relationship.

Show examples from the web [+]

You know, you're in the right place if you have something to work out.
If it doesn't work out, we'll do something else.
If this doesn't work out we'll talk, and we'll figure something else out that does work for both of us.
If something doesn't work, you change it, you have to help me!
Around here, if something doesn't work, I got a problem,
It means something doesn't work in Sector 6.
The company sent me to deal with Denisov, see if we could work something out.
I could see if we could work something out.
I'll talk to him, see if we can work something out.
We just want to talk to you, see if we can work something out.
All we want to do is talk to them, see if we can work something out.
All we want to do is talk to them, see if we can work something out.
If this doesn't work out, call him.
Sometimes it doesn't Work out like that.
Chick doesn't work out, you get a full refund or a swap.
If Dwight doesn't work out, maybe that could be manager.
If this doesn't work out, I could end up being the oldest Gap employee...
Yep. Might make it tough if the relationship doesn't work out.
Sometimes it just doesn't work out.
Something doesn't work, don't get stuck.

Alternatives:

if something fails to materialize
if something doesn't succeed
if something doesn't come to fruition
if something doesn't pan out
if something doesn't go as planned

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If something doesn't work vs If something doesn't work out