sort out
phrasal verb·1 sense·particle out
Meanings
Resolve a problem successfully
Why “out”? A problem, disagreement, or hard time continues until it is settled or ends.
“We sorted out the schedule conflict.”
“They sorted out the payment problem.”
“Maya and Leo sorted out the projector problem before the office presentation.”
Common mistake
I'll sort out it tomorrow.
I'll sort it out tomorrow.
A pronoun goes in the middle: sort it out.
Natural collocations
The word partners “sort out” most often appears with — learn the phrase, not just the verb.
Test yourself
“We sorted out the schedule conflict.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
fight out
Same out pattern: resolution
Settle a disagreement by arguing or fighting until one side wins
hammer out
Same out pattern: resolution
Reach an agreement after long and difficult discussion
hold out
Same out pattern: resolution
Resist or last for a particular time
iron out
Same out pattern: resolution
Solve small problems or differences
straighten out
Same out pattern: resolution
Resolve a problem or confusion
sweat out
Same out pattern: resolution
Endure a difficult or anxious situation until it ends
talk out
Same out pattern: resolution
Discuss a problem fully until it is settled
wait out
Same out pattern: resolution
Wait until a difficult situation ends
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