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Phrasal verbs "sort out" vs "work out"

Differences between sort out and work out

Sort out usually means to organize or arrange something, while work out generally means to solve a problem or figure out a solution.

Meanings and Definitions: sort out vs work out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Sort out

  • 1Resolve a problem.

    Has the firm SORTED OUT its tax problems yet?

Work out

  • 1End nicely.

    Things were going wrong for them but fortunately it all WORKED OUT in the end.

  • 2Find the answer or solution.

    I couldn't WORK OUT all the answers to the crossword puzzle.

Usage Examples: sort out, work out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

sort out

Example

I need to sort out my messy room.

Example

She sorts out her finances every month.

work out

Example

Can you work out this math problem for me?

Example

She works out the solution to the puzzle quickly.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sort out

put in order

To arrange or organize something in a neat and orderly way.

Example

She spent the whole day putting her closet in order by sorting out clothes and shoes.

tidy up

To clean or organize a space or area to make it neat and presentable.

Example

Before the guests arrived, she made sure to tidy up the living room and put away any clutter.

straighten out

To resolve or clarify a misunderstanding or confusion.

Example

They had a disagreement about the project's deadline, but they managed to straighten it out by talking it through.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Work out

figure out

To solve or understand a problem or situation.

Example

He couldn't figure out how to fix the broken computer until he called the IT department for help.

resolve

To find a solution to a problem or conflict.

Example

They had a disagreement about the budget, but they managed to resolve it by compromising and finding common ground.

iron out

To eliminate or smooth out any issues or problems in a plan or agreement.

Example

Before signing the contract, they needed to iron out some details and make sure everything was clear.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “work”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in sort out vs work out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: sort out or work out?

In daily conversation, people use work out more often than sort out. This is because work out can be used in a variety of situations, from personal problems to work-related issues. Sort out is also used frequently but tends to be more specific to organizing things like schedules, paperwork, or belongings.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of sort out and work out

Sort out and work out are both informal phrases that are commonly used in casual conversations. However, work out can also be used in more formal settings such as business or academic contexts when discussing solutions to problems.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of sort out and work out

The tone of sort out and work out can differ based on context. Sort out often carries a practical and straightforward tone when related to organizing or arranging things, while work out typically has a more thoughtful and analytical tone, especially when referring to solving complex problems.

sort out & work out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Sort out

Synonyms

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