1 C1 idiomatic slang
(Slang, AAVE) To handle a situation, responsibility, or opponent with skill and confidence.
"When things got tough, she just handled up and got the job done."
handle up
C1 slang intransitive
To manage, deal with, or perform effectively, especially in a difficult or competitive situation.
In plain English
To take care of something or do something really well.
What does "handle up" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Usage tip
Primarily used in AAVE and African American pop culture. Associated with hip-hop lyrics and informal speech. Not widely understood across all English-speaking communities. Learners should be aware it is highly informal and culturally specific.
Words that pair with "handle up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
business situation competition rivals duties
How to conjugate "handle up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
handle up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
handles up
he/she/it
Past simple
handled up
yesterday
Past participle
handled up
have + pp
-ing form
handling up
continuous
Hear "handle up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "handle up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "handle up"
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