Sorting out Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sorting out

[ˈsɔːrtɪŋ ˈaʊt ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Phrasal verb}

separating things or finding a solution

To organize or resolve a situation, often by separating things that are mixed up or finding a solution to a problem.

Synonyms

arrange, clarify, organize, resolve, tidy up.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sorting out	Used when dealing with a problem or a mess that needs to be solved or cleaned up. I need to sort out my finances before the end of the month. She helped me sort out the misunderstanding with the manager.
resolve	Appropriate when solving a problem, often one that is causing disagreement or difficulty. We need to resolve this issue before it escalates further. The committee resolved the dispute between the two companies.
organize	Relevant when structuring or planning something in a detailed and ordered way. I need to organize my files before the audit. They organized a charity event to raise money for the cause.
arrange	Applicable when ordering or setting up items or events in a systematic or desired sequence. Can you arrange these books in alphabetical order? She arranged a meeting with the new client.
clarify	Best used when making something clear or easier to understand. Can you clarify what you mean by 'better results'? The professor clarified the complicated concept for the students.
tidy up	Often used for cleaning and making a space neat and orderly. I need to tidy up my room before the guests arrive. She spent the afternoon tidying up the garden.

Examples of usage

Let's start sorting out these papers on the desk.
They need to sort out their differences and work together.
I'm trying to sort out my schedule for next week.
We need to sort out this issue before it gets worse.
Can you help me sort out this mess?

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

The act of sorting is linked to cognitive processes; it helps individuals manage information and reduce anxiety by creating structure.
Cognitive psychology suggests that when people sort out problems, they often experience a sense of control and clarity, making decision-making easier.
Sorting tasks can improve focus and productivity, as it allows the brain to tackle one thing at a time rather than being overwhelmed.

Pop Culture

In various TV shows and movies, characters are often shown 'sorting out' their lives, which symbolizes personal growth and self-discovery.
The phrase has been used in popular song lyrics, reflecting themes of love and relationships where individuals need to sort out their feelings.
Reality TV often features contestants 'sorting out' their drama, adding suspense and intrigue as they navigate relationships.

Education

Teachers often encourage sorting out information into categories to help students better understand and remember concepts.
In educational settings, students are taught to sort out their work and ideas to enhance learning and improve project outcomes.
Organizational skills learned through sorting out play a crucial role in academic success and time management.

Technology

In data management, 'sorting out' refers to organizing data sets to find specific information quickly and efficiently.
Software programs utilize sorting algorithms to help users arrange data in meaningful ways, like sorting emails or files.
Sorting out is essential in troubleshooting tech issues, where users must identify problems to fix them effectively.

Origin of 'sorting out'

Main points about word origin

The phrase 'sorting out' combines 'sort,' which comes from Latin, meaning 'to arrange' or 'to classify,' and 'out,' meaning 'to remove from.'
It became popular in English around the 15th century, reflecting the need for organization in various aspects of life.
In the context of communication, 'sorting out' can imply resolving misunderstandings, originated from the need to clarify thoughts among people.

The phrasal verb 'sorting out' originates from the combination of the verb 'sort' and the preposition 'out'. The verb 'sort' has Old French and Latin roots, meaning 'to arrange things in a particular order'. The preposition 'out' adds the sense of separation or resolution. As a result, 'sorting out' has been commonly used in English to describe the action of organizing or resolving a situation.