Meaning trap

deal with

handle a problem

to take action to solve a problem or manage a difficult situation.

phrasal verbB1core

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

handle a problem

to take action to solve a problem or manage a difficult situation.

deal with (be about a topic)

Another meaning of 'deal with' is 'be about a topic'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

She had to deal with a lot of stress at her new job.daily life
In my opinion, learning how to deal with difficult people is an important life skill.IELTS speaking

Pattern: deal with + noun/pronoun

WrongDon't worry, I'll deal it.

RightDon't worry, I'll deal with it.

Always 'deal WITH' + object — never drop 'with' (bare 'deal' means hand out cards).

Patterndeal with + noun/pronoun

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff I must address this problematic situation immediately.

Natural I'll deal with it right now.

'Deal with' is the everyday verb for handling problems. 'Address a problematic situation' is report-speak, not conversation.

Words that usually travel with it.

Not the same as 'deal' (to give out cards) or 'deal in' (to trade).

deal with (be about a topic) — Another meaning of 'deal with' is 'be about a topic'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.