Phrasal verb
deal with
Meanings
to handle a problem, situation, or task; to take action to manage or solve it
to treat someone or something in a particular way
to be about a topic; to address a subject in speech or writing
Definition
To deal with something means to handle it or take action to solve it.
To deal with something is to manage a situation, problem, or task and take the necessary actions. It often implies finding a practical way to solve difficulties or respond to challenges. It can also mean to talk about or address a topic in writing or conversation.
Examples
- I can deal with the repairs this weekend.
- Can you deal with the customer emails while I’m in the meeting?
- She dealt with the unexpected change calmly.
- They deal with climate science in the final chapter.
- He doesn’t like being dealt with so rudely.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "deal with" (handle/manage) with "deal to" (distribute cards) and say *deal with the cards* instead of "deal the cards."
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.