Handling: meaning, definitions and examples

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handling

 

[ ˈhandlɪŋ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

customer service

The process of dealing with customers' inquiries, requests, or complaints. It involves providing assistance, resolving issues, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Synonyms

management, management, treatment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
handling

In some contexts, handling can also refer to the management or dealing with situations or individuals, similar to 'management.'

  • His handling of the crisis was very professional
  • She has excellent handling skills when it comes to managing the team
management

This word is most appropriate for situations involving the organization, administration, and control of resources, projects, businesses, or groups of people.

  • Good management is crucial for the success of any company
  • She is studying business management at university
treatment

This word is typically used in the context of medical care or how someone is dealt with or regarded. It can describe therapeutic procedures or the way someone is treated in social situations.

  • The treatment for the disease requires several weeks of medication
  • He received unfair treatment from his colleagues

Examples of usage

  • The company has excellent handling of customer complaints.
  • She is very skilled in handling difficult customers.
  • Effective handling of customer inquiries is crucial for customer retention.
Context #2 | Verb

physical manipulation

The act of touching, holding, or manipulating something with your hands. It can also refer to managing or dealing with a situation.

Synonyms

control, management, manipulation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
handling

Usually used when referring to the way someone deals with or manages a situation, object, or problem. It often focuses on the process of dealing with something.

  • Her handling of the crisis was commendable.
  • Proper handling of glass is important to avoid breakage.
manipulation

Often has a negative connotation and is used when someone is trying to control or influence others in a deceptive or unfair way.

  • His manipulation of the company's finances was illegal.
  • She felt manipulated into doing something against her will.
management

Typically refers to the organization and coordination of activities in order to achieve defined objectives. Often used in business contexts.

  • Good management is key to a successful business.
  • She studied management at university.
control

Commonly used when talking about the power to influence or direct people's behavior or the course of events. It can also refer to the ability to manage something effectively.

  • He lost control of his car and crashed.
  • You should have better control over your emotions.

Examples of usage

  • He was handling the fragile object with care.
  • She is skilled at handling difficult situations.
  • Can you handle the pressure of this job?

Translations

Translations of the word "handling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 manuseio

🇮🇳 संबालना

🇩🇪 Handhabung

🇮🇩 penanganan

🇺🇦 обробка

🇵🇱 obsługa

🇯🇵 取り扱い (とりあつかい)

🇫🇷 manipulation

🇪🇸 manejo

🇹🇷 elleçleme

🇰🇷 처리 (처리)

🇸🇦 معالجة

🇨🇿 manipulace

🇸🇰 manipulácia

🇨🇳 处理 (chǔlǐ)

🇸🇮 ravnanje

🇮🇸 meðhöndlun

🇰🇿 өңдеу

🇬🇪 მოწესრიგება

🇦🇿 idarəetmə

🇲🇽 manejo

Etymology

The word 'handling' originated from the Old English word 'handlian', which means 'to touch or move with the hands'. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include managing or dealing with various situations. The term has been used in customer service contexts since the early 20th century, emphasizing the importance of effectively dealing with customer inquiries and complaints.

See also: backhand, deckhand, forehand, hand, handbag, handball, handbook, handbreadth, handcrafted, handcrafting, handcuffs, handful, handgun, handheld, handicap, handicapped, handily, handiwork, handkerchief, handle, handled, handler, handles, handmade, handmake, handover, handpicked, handrail, hands, handwarmer, handwear, handwriting, handy, handycam, handyman, handyperson, offhand, openhandedly, shorthand.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,263, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.