sort something out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sort something out" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to resolving a problem or organizing something. Example: "We need to sort out the issues with the project before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

I am hopeful we will sort something out in the not too distant future".

Independent

At the same time, it is an attempt to sort something out, to grapple with the reality of these feelings.

The New Yorker

If it was I would have my lawyers talk to the reaper now and sort something out".

The Guardian - Books

Give me just a chance to clean something up, sort something out, make it right, I thought, and I will take it".

The New Yorker

Mickelson planned to give his swing coach, Butch Harmon, a call to sort something out in his swing, and expects to be hitting more solid shots Sunday.

The New York Times

At the end of the day, we've got another week for them to sort something out for us or somewhere to go to".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

"Yes, I certainly plan to meet Brian with a view to sorting something out," Diamond said this week.

Independent

"I was about half an hour away and Ollie [Ian Holloway, the Blackpool manager] phoned me and said: 'Marlon, we've sorted something out.' I said: 'Ollie, I'm on my way to Greece.' He said: 'You don't want to be doing that'.

The Guardian - Sport

Pop singer Nadine Coyle, who is from Derry, hinted that she may appear in Season 2. In February 2018, she told the Irish Daily Star, "I'm going to call [creator] Lisa [McGee] today actually, we're sorting something out for the next series". That same month, McGee told IFTN that she'd been in touch with Coyle.

Forbes

"The impatience of the internet — 'give it to us immediately' — drives so much, it's hard to sort something like this out".

Huffington Post

'Sort out something quick,' was the watchword I'd bet, and this was it".

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sort something out", ensure the context is clear about what needs resolving or organizing. Be specific rather than vague to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "sort something out" is acceptable in many situations, avoid using it excessively in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives like "resolve", "rectify", or "address" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sort something out" functions as a phrasal verb. It combines the verb 'sort' with the particle 'out' to create a new meaning. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in resolving issues or organizing tasks.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "sort something out" is a common and versatile expression used to convey the act of resolving issues, organizing tasks, or clarifying situations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability across diverse contexts, from news and media to more informal settings. While widely used, remember to consider the level of formality required and choose more precise alternatives like "resolve" or "rectify" for professional communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolve an issue

Focuses on finding a solution to a specific problem.

straighten things out

Suggests correcting a situation that is confused or problematic.

figure something out

Implies understanding or finding a solution through thinking or investigation.

deal with something

Indicates handling a task, problem, or situation.

iron out the details

Refers to resolving minor discrepancies or finalizing plans.

settle a matter

Focuses on reaching a decision or agreement.

take care of something

Implies managing or attending to a specific task or problem.

fix a problem

Highlights the act of repairing or correcting an issue.

organize a solution

Focuses on systematizing or structuring a resolution.

rectify the situation

Indicates correcting something that is wrong or unjust.

FAQs

What does "sort something out" mean?

The phrase "sort something out" means to resolve a problem, organize something, or find a solution to a difficult situation. It implies taking action to clarify or fix an issue.

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

You can use "sort something out" in sentences like: "We need to "resolve an issue" with the budget" or "They are trying to "settle a matter" before the meeting".

Which is more appropriate, "sort something out" or "resolve an issue"?

"Sort something out" is more informal and suitable for casual conversations, while ""resolve an issue"" is more formal and better suited for professional or academic contexts.

What are some alternatives to "sort something out"?

Alternatives to "sort something out" include ""resolve an issue"", "straighten things out", and "figure something out", depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.