What does the phrasal verb “sort out” mean?

What are the definitions of “sort out”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Resolve a problem.

  Has the firm SORTED OUT its tax problems yet?

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sort out”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sort out is to resolve or deal with a problem or issue. It is often used when talking about finding a solution to a difficult situation or organizing something that is messy or confusing.

What are the different verb forms of “sort out”?

Root Verb	sort out
Third Person Singular Present	sorts out
Present Participle	sorting out
Simple Past	sorted out
Past Participle	sorted out

Example

I need to sort out my messy room.

Example

She sorts out her finances every month.

Example

He is sorting out the documents for the meeting.

Example

Yesterday, they sorted out the misunderstanding between them.

Example

The issue has been sorted out and everything is back to normal.

What kind of phrasal verb is “sort out”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Transitive verb

“sort out” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

She sorted out the problem with her computer.

Example

He sorted out the mess in the kitchen.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“sort out” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

She sorted out the problem with her computer.

Example

He sorted out the mess in the kitchen.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sort out”?

Sort something out with someone

Discuss and resolve an issue or problem with another person.

Example

I need to sort out the schedule with my boss before I can take a vacation.

Sort out one's life

To organize and improve one's personal situation, often after a period of difficulty or confusion.

Example

After the breakup, she took some time to sort out her life and focus on herself.

Sort out one's feelings

To understand and process one's emotions, especially after a difficult or confusing situation.

Example

He needed time to sort out his feelings after the argument.

Good things to know

Does “sort out” have an informal or formal tone?

Sort out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “sort out”?

Synonyms

• resolve
• settle
• fix
• organize
• arrange
• address
• clear up
• deal with
• tidy up
• straighten out

Antonyms

• complicate
• confuse
• disorganize
• disorder
• entangle
• muddle
• unravel
• mess up