English Reference

Word

dealt

US/ˈdɛɫt/

UK/dˈɛlt/

Definition

v. the past form of 'deal'. You use it when you have already handled a problem, given out cards in a game, or traded goods.

v. the past tense and past participle of 'deal'. Refers to the distribution of cards, the management of a situation, or the historical conduct of business.

Examples

“She dealt the cards to the players at the table.”

“The manager dealt with the customer's complaint quickly and professionally to avoid further conflict.”

“Having dealt with similar logistical hurdles in previous quarters, the operations team was uniquely prepared to navigate the sudden supply chain disruption without losing momentum.”

Examples

simple

“She dealt the cards to the players at the table.”

contextual

“The manager dealt with the customer's complaint quickly and professionally to avoid further conflict.”

complex

“Having dealt with similar logistical hurdles in previous quarters, the operations team was uniquely prepared to navigate the sudden supply chain disruption without losing momentum.”

Usage

The past tense and past participle of 'deal'. When used with 'with', it is an inseparable phrasal verb requiring an object.

Pitfall

He dealed with the problem

He dealt with the problem

'Deal' is an irregular verb; the past form is 'dealt', not 'dealed'.

Idioms

play the hand one is dealt — To use the resources which one actually has available; to operate realistically, within the limits of one's circumstances.

This entry

Level
B1 · Intermediate
Frequency
Common
Updated

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English Reference