# deal with sth

CEFR A2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/deal-with-sth
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

To take action to solve a problem or manage a situation. It can also mean that your job or a book is about a certain topic.

For teachers: To take appropriate action to manage a task, problem, or person. Can also mean 'to be about' or 'have as a subject'.

## Examples

- You need to deal with this problem now.
- As a manager, she has to deal with many different types of people every day.
- The report deals with the complex effects of climate change on global food supply chains.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I can't deal this situation alone." but "I can't deal with this situation alone." — The preposition 'with' is required; 'deal' alone has a different meaning (e.g., to give out cards in a game).

## Usage notes

- Often followed by a noun representing a problem, a task, or a topic.
- Teaching tip: Contrast 'deal with' (taking action on an external issue) with 'cope with' (managing one's internal emotional response to a difficult situation).

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.