# tackling

/ˈtækəɫɪŋ/ (US) · /tˈæklɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tackling
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. dealing with a problem

verb · CEFR B2

trying to solve a difficult task or problem.

For teachers: the act of initiating effort to deal with or resolve a difficult task or situation.

- The government is tackling the problem of rising food prices.
- Tackling systemic inequality requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both economic policy and social infrastructure simultaneously.

Usage: Often used with abstract nouns like 'issue', 'problem', or 'challenge'.

### 2. sport

verb · CEFR B2

trying to take the ball away from another player or knocking them down.

For teachers: the act of physically challenging an opponent to gain possession of the ball or impede their progress.

- He was yellow-carded for tackling the striker from behind.
- The coach emphasised the importance of tackling safely to prevent head injuries during high-impact plays.

Usage: Common in football, rugby, and American football.

### 3. nautical equipment

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

the ropes and pulleys used on a ship to move heavy things.

For teachers: the system of ropes, chains, and blocks used on a vessel for working the sails or hoisting heavy weights.

- The sailors spent the afternoon checking the tackling before the storm arrived.
- The intricate tackling of the nineteenth-century merchant vessel required constant maintenance to ensure the safety of the crew during heavy gales.

Teaching tip: In modern English, 'rigging' is more common for ships; 'tackling' in this sense is quite technical or historical.

## Examples

- The government is finally tackling the issue of rising energy costs.
- After months of delay, the committee began tackling the backlog of applications to ensure everyone received a response.
- Successfully tackling systemic inequality requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both immediate economic needs and long-term structural barriers to social mobility.

---

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.