Quick Definition
Sort Out — To resolve a problem or difficult situation; to organise or tidy things; to deal with something that needs attention.
Meanings of Sort Out
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Notes / Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Resolve a problem | We need to sort out this misunderstanding. | Find a solution to a difficult situation. |
| Organise or tidy | She sorted out the files on her desk. | Put things in order; arrange or tidy. |
| Deal with / arrange | I'll sort out the travel arrangements. | Handle or take responsibility for something. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| Can you sort out the billing issue before the end of the day? | Resolve a specific problem under time pressure. |
| He finally sorted out his flat after months of clutter. | Tidied and organised his living space. |
| The two colleagues sorted out their differences over lunch. | Resolved a personal conflict or disagreement. |
| She sorted the receipts out before the audit. | Separated form: organised financial documents. |
| Don't worry — I'll sort it out. | Pronoun form: a reassuring promise to resolve something. |
| We need to sort out the schedule for next week. | Organise and plan something in advance. |
| The manager sorted out the dispute between the two teams. | Resolved a workplace conflict. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: Separable | Transitivity: Transitive
With noun objects: Both forms are correct — sort out the problem or sort the problem out.
With pronoun objects: Must separate — sort it out / sort them out. Never: sort out it.
Reflexive use: Sort yourself out — get your life or situation in order (informal).
How to Use Sort Out
Informal to neutral. Most common in British English. Widely used in spoken and written everyday language, but less appropriate in very formal documents.
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken (British) | Leave it with me — I'll sort it out. |
| Neutral / Professional | We are working to sort out the technical difficulties. |
| Formal alternative | Resolve / Address / Organise / Rectify |
| American English equivalent | Figure out / Work out / Take care of |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Sort Out
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Sort Out
What does "sort out" mean?
"Sort out" has two main meanings: to resolve a problem or difficult situation (I'll sort out the issue), and to organise or tidy things (sort out your desk). It is a separable transitive phrasal verb at CEFR B1 and is especially common in British English.
Is "sort out" separable or inseparable?
"Sort out" is separable. With noun objects, both forms are correct: sort out the problem or sort the problem out. With pronouns, you must separate: sort it out, never sort out it.
How do I use "sort out" in a sentence?
We need to sort out this misunderstanding. She sorted out the files on her desk. With a pronoun: Don't worry — I'll sort it out.
What is the register of "sort out"?
"Sort out" is informal to neutral. It is very common in British English, both in spoken and written contexts. In formal writing, prefer "resolve", "organise", or "address". In American English, "figure out" or "work out" are more commonly used.
What CEFR level is "sort out"?
"Sort out" is a B1 — Intermediate phrasal verb. It is particularly common in British English and learners who study British English will encounter it frequently in everyday speech and professional contexts.
What is the difference between "sort out" and "work out"?
"Sort out" emphasises resolving or organising — bringing order to a messy situation. "Work out" emphasises finding a solution through thought or effort. "Sort out" is more British; "work out" is more neutral. You sort out a problem; you work out a solution.
Can "sort out" be used formally?
"Sort out" is mainly informal. In formal documents or emails, prefer "resolve", "address", or "organise". However, in semi-formal British business speech, "sort out" is very common and widely accepted.
Does "sort out" take an object?
Yes, "sort out" is transitive and takes an object. With nouns: sort out the problem or sort the problem out. With pronouns, must separate: sort it out. It can also be used reflexively: sort yourself out.
How can I practise "sort out"?
Use LexFizz's Flip Tiles and Find the Match exercises to practise "sort out" in real sentence contexts. Compare it with "work out" and "deal with" to understand the subtle differences between problem-solving phrasal verbs.
Is "sort out" used differently in British and American English?
Yes — "sort out" is strongly associated with British English. American speakers are more likely to say "figure out", "work out", or "take care of". American speakers will understand "sort out", but they use it less frequently in their own speech.