sort out

To deal with a problem and make things work properly again.

• Can you sort out this problem?
• The mechanic sorted out the strange noise in my car.
• We’re still trying to sort things out with the bank.

How to use it: sort something out (Don’t worry; we’ll sort it out.)

Similar words: solve, fix, resolve

Common phrases: sort out something, sort something out

To make the necessary plans or arrangements for something.

• I’ll sort out the tickets.
• We sorted out a meeting for next Tuesday.
• Have you sorted out where we’ll stay?

How to use it: sort something out for someone (I’ll sort out a room for you.)

Similar words: arrange, organize

Common phrases: sort out something, sort something out

To put a collection of things in order, often by dividing them into groups.

• Please sort out your desk.
• We sorted out the old clothes and kept only what fitted.
• I’m sorting out these papers before I move.

How to use it: sort something out into something (She sorted the clothes out into separate piles.)

Similar words: organize, tidy, sort

Common phrases: sort out something, sort something out

To think carefully about confused ideas or feelings so you understand them better.

• I need to sort out my thoughts.
• She took a walk to sort out her feelings.
• Have you sorted out what you really want?

How to use it: sort something out in your head (I need time to sort this out in my head.)

Similar words: clarify, think through

Common phrases: sort out something, sort something out

To choose particular people or things from a group and separate them from the rest.

• Sort out the damaged apples.
• She sorted out the useful papers from the rest.
• We need to sort out suitable candidates from those without experience.

How to use it: sort out A from B (We sorted out the usable parts from the broken ones.)

Similar words: separate, select, pick out

Common phrases: sort out something, sort something out

To stop someone causing trouble, often by threatening or hurting them.

• They threatened to sort him out.
• Her brother went outside to sort out the bully.
• The gang said they would sort me out after school.

How to use it: sort someone out (He threatened to sort me out if I complained.)

Similar words: deal with, beat up

Common phrases: sort out someone, sort someone out