put two and two together

Idioms and Phrases

Draw the proper inference from existing evidence, as in Putting two and two together, it's not hard to guess who will be chosen for the lead role in the play . [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

He told the inquiry: "Because of what happened the following day, I put two and two together and came up with some conclusion that we were probably being followed."

From BBC

On it, she heard Ms Hartley talk about symptoms she herself had suffered with but had "never put two and two together".

From BBC

I think there is a delay and when that happens, you put two and two together and you realize that a human brain is not designed to be exposed to this much misery and bloodshed every single day.

From Salon

Judge Florence Pan, a Biden administration appointee, quickly put two and two together.

From Slate

Louis Ahearne said this was for "tourist" purposes, but Stewart Ahearne said he "put two and two together" after the burglary.

From BBC

Related Words

• clarify
• clear up
• deal with
• decide
• determine
• do
• explain
• figure out
• fix
• have
• iron out
• settle
• work out