1 A2 neutral
To organise or arrange a collection of things by separating them into groups.
"Can you sort out the recyclables from the general rubbish?"
separable
sort out
A2 informal separable transitive
To organise, resolve, or deal with a problem, situation, or collection of items.
In plain English
To fix a problem, put things in order, or deal with a situation.
What does "sort out" mean?
4 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 A2 idiomatic informal
To resolve a problem, difficulty, or misunderstanding.
"Don't worry — I'll call the hotel and sort the booking out."
separable
3 B1 idiomatic informal
To deal with or punish someone who has caused trouble.
"If he keeps bullying the younger students, the headteacher will soon sort him out."
separable
4 B1 idiomatic informal
To provide someone with what they need or to help them.
"My mate at the garage sorted me out with a cheap set of tyres."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To sort (classify or arrange) things outward from a collection — fairly transparent in some senses.
Actually means
To fix a problem, put things in order, or deal with a situation.
Usage tip
Extremely common in British and Australian English across all contexts. Can refer to resolving arguments, organising objects, dealing with practical tasks, or disciplining someone ('I'll sort you out!'). Very versatile.
Words that pair with "sort out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
problem mess issue details misunderstanding arrangements situation
How to conjugate "sort out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
sort out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sorts out
he/she/it
Past simple
sorted out
yesterday
Past participle
sorted out
have + pp
-ing form
sorting out
continuous
Hear "sort out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "sort out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "sort out"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
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