# sort out

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sort-out
Updated: 2026-10-23

## Definition

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

For teachers: 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "We need to sort out of this problem." but "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'.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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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.