sort out

USAGE SUMMARY

"sort out" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when giving someone an instruction to organize, or clarify something. Example: "Please sort out the books on the shelf so that all the fiction books are together and the non-fiction books are separate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He would sort out the logistics later.

The Economist

I want to sort out a date.

The New Yorker

Such visits help sort out initial impressions.

The New York Times

It could take weeks to sort out.

The Guardian

Now, Paul can't sort out his feelings.

Independent

Don't know how to sort out immigration?

Independent

First, let's sort out some terminology.

The Washington Post

It is not easy to sort out.

The New York Times

Someone had to sort out the facts.

The Washington Post

There were still emotions to sort out.

The New York Times - Sports

I could sort out whatever it was.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sort out" when you want to convey the idea of resolving a problem, organizing items, or clarifying a situation. It's versatile but consider more specific alternatives for precise communication.

Common error

While "sort out" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal writing. In business or academic contexts, stronger verbs like "resolve", "rectify", or "organize" may convey a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "sort out" functions as a versatile term for actions like organizing, resolving, or clarifying. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its use in various contexts, confirming its active role in both informal and formal communication.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

26%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

7%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sort out" is a common and versatile phrasal verb used to describe the process of organizing, resolving, or clarifying. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is generally considered correct and usable in written English. While it appears frequently in news, media, and general writing, more formal alternatives may be preferable in academic or professional contexts. Remembering to consider the specific nuance you wish to convey and adjusting your word choice accordingly will help ensure clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

straighten out

This alternative conveys fixing something that is wrong or confused.

organize

This alternative focuses on the arrangement aspect of "sort out".

resolve

This alternative emphasizes solving a problem, which is one meaning of "sort out".

figure out

Focuses on understanding or discovering something.

put in order

Emphasizes organizing or arranging something neatly.

arrange

Similar to 'organize', but may imply planning or setting up.

clarify

This option highlights making something clear or understandable.

make sense of

Focuses on understanding something that is confusing or difficult to comprehend.

deal with

Suggests addressing or handling a situation or problem.

untangle

Implies resolving a complex or confusing situation.

FAQs

How can I use "sort out" in a sentence?

You can use "sort out" to mean organize, resolve, or clarify. For example, "I need to "sort out" my finances" or "Let's "sort out" this misunderstanding".

What is a more formal alternative to "sort out"?

In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "resolve", "rectify", or "organize" depending on the specific meaning you intend to convey.

Is "sort out" appropriate for academic writing?

While understandable, "sort out" might be too informal for some academic contexts. Using more precise verbs such as "analyze", "categorize", or "elucidate" could improve the tone and clarity of your writing.

What's the difference between "sort out" and "figure out"?

"Sort out" implies organizing or resolving, while "figure out" focuses on understanding or discovering. You "sort out" a problem by resolving it, but you "figure out" a puzzle by understanding it.