“Well, one way or the other, I'd better figure something out soon.”

English Lesson: Well, one way or the other, I'd better figure something out soon.

You lost your job a few months ago and haven't been able to find work. You've been talking with a friend about whether you should keep applying for jobs in the same industry or try to change careers. You conclude by saying this.

Well, one way or the other, I'd better figure something out soon.

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figure (something) out

When you're trying to understand something, and you finally understand it, you've "figured it out". 

Aya figured out how to hook up the webcam, so now we can video chat with you guys!

You can also "figure out" a problem, which means that you find a solution to the problem:

I'm two months late on my rent, and I still can't find a job. I need to figure something out or I'm going to be out on the street.

The object of "figure out" can come in two different places: 

  • figure (something) out
  • figure out (something)

Pronouns like "it", "them", etc. go between "figure" and "out". Most other words can go in both locations.

I'd better (do something)

Use "I'd better ___" to express something that you should do soon.

I'd better get going, or I'll be late.

Compared to "I should ___" this phrase sounds more urgent. Use it for things that you need to do quite soon.

Well, (sentence)

You use "well" to change the topic or the tone of a conversation:

A: How are your classes going?

B: Not too well, to be honest. Calculus is kicking my butt.

A: Well, hang in there.

B: Yeah, I'll try. Hey, have you talked to Priscilla lately?

You can also use "well" to signal the end of a conversation. For example, you might say this after talking to someone who's just returned to work from maternity leave:

Well, it's nice to have you back.

one way or another/the other

Use the phrases "one way or another" or "one way or the other" to talk about something that's going to happen, no matter what.

This can be some goal that you really want to accomplish:

We will make it to the playoffs, one way or the other.

Or it can be something that can't be avoided:

She's going to find out, one way or another. You might as well be honest with her.