to handle

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "to handle" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an action--for example, "He was able to handle the difficult situation with grace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They're easy to handle.

The New York Times - Sports

I need to handle this".

The New Yorker

I'm willing to handle it".

The Guardian

Get a pitch to handle.

The New York Times

It was almost too much to handle".

The New York Times

They're going to handle all payments.

The New York Times

"You have to handle it with finesse.

The New Yorker

I once got to handle some.

The New Yorker

Too hot to handle or incarcerate?

The New York Times

"These enormous changes are hard to handle".

The New Yorker

That is a lot to handle.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to handle", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. "To handle" can imply managing a task, dealing with a problem, or physically manipulating an object. Choose the word that best fits the context.

Common error

Avoid using "to handle" as a generic substitute for more precise verbs. Instead of saying "I need to handle this", specify what action you will take: "I need to organize this", "I need to fix this", or "I need to delegate this".

Linguistic Context

The infinitive phrase "to handle" functions primarily as a verb complement or infinitive of purpose. It describes the action of managing, dealing with, or controlling something. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is both correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

36%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to handle" is a versatile and frequently used infinitive phrase that describes the act of managing, dealing with, or controlling something. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and applicable in diverse contexts, particularly in news and media and Wiki sources. When using "to handle", it's important to consider the specific nuance you want to convey and avoid using it as a vague substitute for more precise verbs. Alternatives such as "to manage", "to deal with", and "to control" can provide greater clarity depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to manage

This alternative focuses on the organizational and administrative aspects of dealing with something.

to deal with

This alternative emphasizes the act of addressing and resolving a situation or problem.

to control

This alternative highlights the aspect of maintaining authority or direction over something.

to address

This alternative emphasizes the act of formally discussing or dealing with a matter.

to take care of

This alternative focuses on the responsibility and attention given to something.

to cope with

This alternative suggests the ability to manage difficulties or challenges.

to manipulate

This alternative implies skillful control or influence, sometimes with a negative connotation.

to negotiate

This alternative suggests skillful handling to reach an agreement.

to administer

This alternative focuses on the procedural aspect of managing something, often in an official capacity.

to sort out

This alternative implies resolving confusion or problems in a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "to handle" in a sentence?

You can use "to handle" to describe managing a situation, like "She knows how "to handle pressure"", or dealing with an object, like "Be careful "to handle the glassware"".

What are some alternatives to "to handle"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "to manage", "to deal with", "to control", or "to address".

Is it correct to say "I can't handle it"?

Yes, "I can't handle it" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate that something is too difficult or overwhelming to manage.

What's the difference between "to handle" and "to manipulate"?

"To handle" generally implies managing or dealing with something, whereas "to manipulate" often suggests skillful control, sometimes with a negative connotation of influencing or exploiting something for personal gain.