One phrase, 4 different jobs. Tap a meaning to jump to it — then lock each one in by saying it out loud.
Read the sentence, then pick the meaning that's in play.
Ordered by how often you'll hear each one — the meaning tells you what it does, the examples and tips show it in use.
to deal with a problem or arrange something so it's done properly
Don't worry, I'll sort it out tomorrow morning.
Can you sort out the tickets while I park the car?
Common mistake
Avoid 'sort out it' — say 'sort it out' when using a pronoun.
To arrange things in order or put them in the right place so they are tidy or easy to find.
I need to sort out my desk because it's covered in papers.
A: What are you doing this weekend?
B: I have to sort out my wardrobe. It's a mess right now.
If I have a lot of documents, I usually sort them out into different folders so I can find them easily later.
Common mistake
✗Let me sort out it.
✓Let me sort it out.
With a pronoun, the object goes in the middle: 'sort it out', never 'sort out it'.
Tell it apart
I sorted out the paperwork.
organised / tidiedThey sorted out the misunderstanding.
resolvedOften paired with
To deal with a problem or difficult situation successfully.
Don't worry, I'll sort out the issue with your booking.
A: The internet isn't working again.
B: I'll call the company and try to sort it out.
In my opinion, it's important to sort out any misunderstandings with friends as soon as possible to maintain good relationships.
Common mistake
✗Let me sort out this with them.
✓Let me sort this out with them.
With 'this/it', the object goes in the middle: 'sort it out'.
Tell it apart
They sorted out the dispute quickly.
resolved itI sorted out my wardrobe.
organised / tidiedOften paired with
To clarify or improve your own feelings, thoughts, or situation, especially when you feel confused, upset, or need to make important changes in your life.
After the breakup, he took some time off work to sort himself out.
A: You seem really stressed lately. Everything okay?
B: Not really. I think I just need a few days to sort myself out.
Many young people take a gap year to travel or work abroad as a way to sort themselves out before starting university.
Common mistake
✗I need to sort out myself.
✓I need to sort myself out.
With a reflexive pronoun, it goes in the middle: 'sort myself out'.
Tell it apart
I need to sort myself out.
get my life/feelings togetherI need to sort out the files.
organise themOften paired with
Practise one meaning at a time and save the ones you mix up for review.