English Reference

Phrasal verb

sort out

Definition

phrasal verb. to solve a problem, organize something messy, or deal with a difficult situation successfully.

phrasal verb. to resolve a problem, organize a collection of items, or clarify a misunderstanding. Often implies a transition from a state of disorder or confusion to one of order or resolution.

Examples

“I need to sort out my desk before I start working.”

“The manager spent the whole afternoon trying to sort out the scheduling conflict between the two departments.”

“It took several months for the legal teams to sort out the complexities of the merger and finalize the contracts.”

Examples

simple

“I need to sort out my desk before I start working.”

contextual

“The manager spent the whole afternoon trying to sort out the scheduling conflict between the two departments.”

complex

“It took several months for the legal teams to sort out the complexities of the merger and finalize the contracts.”

Usage

frequently takes an abstract noun like 'problem', 'mess', or 'situation' as its object.

Teaching tip

highlight the dual meaning of physical organization (sorting papers) and abstract problem-solving (sorting a dispute); it is extremely common in British English for general problem-solving.

Pitfall

We need to sort out of this problem.

We need to sort out this problem.

the verb is transitive and takes a direct object; do not add the preposition 'of' after the particle 'out'.

Phrasal verb

Particles

out

Separability

optional

Pattern

sort (+ object) + out

Synonyms

solveorganizeresolvefixarrange

Antonyms

muddledisorganizeneglect

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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