Go figure
/ɡəʊ ˈfɪɡə/
Definition
The meaning: Go figure is an informal expression used to convey that something is surprising, ironic, or hard to understand. It often implies that the situation is so odd or unexpected that it defies explanation.
La signification: Cette expression est utilisée pour exprimer que quelque chose est surprenant, ironique ou difficile à comprendre. Elle sous-entend souvent que la situation est si étrange ou inattendue qu'elle défie toute explication.
Note: This idiomatic phrase is commonly used in casual conversation to express disbelief, resignation, or sarcasm.
Word Analysis
French synonyms
» Va comprendre
» C'est à n'y rien comprendre
» Incroyable mais vrai
» Allez comprendre
» Faut pas chercher à comprendre !
» Cherchez l'erreur !
A: Il a dit qu'il viendrait, mais il n'est toujours pas là. Va comprendre.
B: Oui, c'est typique de lui !
English synonyms
» Go figure
» Go wonder
» Go know
» Figure that one out!
A: She aced the test without even studying. Go figure.
B: Yeah, some people just have all the luck!
Dialogue
Lerato: "The bus was supposed to be here an hour ago, but it's still not here."
Tshepo: "Go figure! It's always late on this route."
Lerato: "And now it's starting to rain. What a day."
Tshepo: "Well, what can you do? Go figure."
Etymology
Origin: The expression "go figure" is an idiomatic phrase that expresses surprise, disbelief, or resignation at something unexpected or illogical. It's a shortened version of "you go figure it out," implying that the situation is puzzling or inexplicable. The phrase became popular in the mid-20th century and is commonly used in American English.
Audience
The expression "go figure" is primarily used in informal, everyday speech. It is a common colloquialism used to express a sense of bafflement or irony. It is widely understood in American English and is suitable for casual conversations.
When to use: Use this phrase when something is surprising, confusing, or frustrating, and you want to express a sense of resignation or disbelief. For example: "I studied all night, and I still failed the test. Go figure!" or "He said he'd be here on time, but he's late again. Go figure." It is not typically used in formal writing but is a common and easily recognisable expression in spoken language.
Dictionary Meaning
Cambridge says the idiomatic expression is "used when you tell someone a fact and you then want to say that the fact is surprising, strange or stupid" Here's a provided example of use:
'It's a terrible movie and it made $200 million. Go figure!'
News Snippet
"Better get Willem’s breakfast going. He’s going fishing with his PE class today. Not kidding. His school is right in the middle of downtown Chicago and they go fishing. Go figure. The first time I heard this a few weeks ago, I nearly fell off my little kitchen stool."
Read the full article at The Daily Maverick
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WordReference
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Common Idioms & Expressions
Go Figure!
Used to express surprise, irony, or disbelief at an unexpected situation.
Example: "He never studied, yet he aced the exam. Go figure!"
What a Surprise!
An expression used to convey astonishment or disbelief.
Example: "She won the lottery after only buying one ticket. What a surprise!"
Imagine That!
Used to express disbelief or amazement at an unexpected outcome.
Example: "He got promoted despite being late every day. Imagine that!"
Isn't That Something?
An expression of surprise or incredulity.
Example: "They found a way to solve the problem without any help. Isn't that something?"
Who Would Have Thought?
Used to indicate surprise or disbelief at an unexpected fact.
Example: "He turned out to be a great singer. Who would have thought?"
Who Would Have Thunk It?
Used to express surprise, often humorously, when something is actually not surprising at all.
Example: "He was promoted to the position of manager. Who would have thunk it?"
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