Sort out Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Home
/ Dictionary
/ Sort out

🔍

Add to dictionary

sort out

[sɔːt aʊt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Phrasal verb}

verb

To organize or arrange something that is in a state of disorder or confusion.

Synonyms

arrange, organize, straighten out, tidy up.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sort out	Best for situations where there is a mess or confusion that needs resolving, often involving problems or misunderstandings. We need to sort out this misunderstanding She needs to sort out her finances before the end of the month
organize	Appropriate when talking about structuring or planning an event, task, or space to make it efficient or orderly. We need to organize a meeting with the team She organized her closet by color and type of clothing
arrange	Used when setting things in a specific order, often implying some level of planning or preparation. Can you arrange these documents by date? They arranged the chairs in a circle for the meeting
tidy up	Used for making a space cleaner or more orderly, usually involving a physical arrangement of items. Please tidy up your room before our guests arrive She tidied up the kitchen after dinner
straighten out	Best used for fixing or resolving confusing or mixed-up situations, similar to 'sort out' but often implying more of an initial disorder or mess. He had to straighten out the billing errors We'll straighten out this schedule so it makes sense

Examples of usage

I need to sort out my closet, it's a mess.
She helped me sort out my thoughts and feelings.
We need to sort out the issue before it escalates.
Let's sort out the details of the plan before we proceed.
If we don't sort out this problem soon, it will only get worse.

^{Context #2 | Phrasal verb}

verb

To resolve a problem or disagreement.

Synonyms

address, fix, resolve, settle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sort out	This phrase is perfect for everyday, informal situations where you need to organize or clarify something, especially when dealing with small problems or tasks. I need to sort out my messy desk. Can you sort out the misunderstanding between the two teams?
resolve	This word is suitable for formal and serious issues, used when finding a final solution to a problem or conflict. They managed to resolve the dispute between the two companies. We must resolve these technical problems before the launch.
settle	Ideal for situations involving disputes or arguments where the goal is to reach an agreement or end the conflict. The parties finally settled their differences and signed the contract. Let's settle this argument and move forward.
fix	Use this word when you need to repair or correct something, often used in both informal and formal contexts. Can you fix the broken chair? The IT department is working to fix the website issue.
address	This term is appropriate for formal and professional settings where you need to confront or discuss a problem or issue directly. We need to address the decline in sales during the last quarter. The meeting was called to address the employee's concerns.

Examples of usage

We need to sort out our differences and move forward.
It's important to sort out any misunderstandings as soon as possible.
Let's sit down and sort out this issue like adults.
They managed to sort out their financial disputes through mediation.
The committee will help us sort out the legal matters.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Usage

In British slang, 'sort out' can also mean to fix a conflict or misunderstanding between people.
The phrase has become a common expression in workplace settings, implying the need to clarify responsibilities or tasks.
In pop culture, sorting out issues is often depicted in movies and TV shows as a moment of growth or resolution for characters.

Psychology

Cognitive psychologists suggest that sorting out information helps improve memory retention by organizing thoughts coherently.
Sorting through problems is a crucial skill in emotional intelligence, as it allows individuals to prioritize feelings and resolve conflicts.
Research has shown that physical organization in one's environment can lead to improved mental clarity and a decrease in stress.

Education

In educational settings, teaching students to sort out their assignments can enhance their time management skills.
Sorting techniques are often used in critical thinking exercises, encouraging students to identify key arguments and evidence.
Group activities often include sorting out roles and responsibilities to boost collaboration among students.

Technology

Data sorting algorithms are essential in programming, where information is organized in a way that computers can easily process.
Tech tools have been developed to help users sort out large amounts of information, making data analysis more efficient.
File management systems are designed to help users sort out their documents, ensuring easy retrieval and organization.

Origin of 'sort out'

Main points about word origin

The phrase 'sort out' originated in the early 19th century, where 'sort' referred to arranging or categorizing.
The word 'sort' comes from the Old French 'sorte,' meaning 'kind, type,' which shows the focus on classification.
Initially, 'to sort' had a broader meaning related to the way things were organized, rather than just solving problems.

The term 'sort out' originated in the late 19th century, combining the words 'sort' and 'out' to convey the idea of organizing or resolving something. It is commonly used in everyday language to describe the act of arranging, categorizing, or resolving issues. The phrasal verb has become popular due to its versatility in expressing both physical and abstract actions.