DEAL WITH

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'deal with' refers to managing, handling, or addressing a situation, problem, or person with relevant effort and strategies.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'deal with' refers to managing, handling, or addressing a situation, problem, or person with relevant effort and strategies.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
The verb cannot be split by its object; the phrasal verb stays together.
Register
Neutral
Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
Requires a direct object; it acts upon something.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple deal with I deal with difficult customers every day.
Past Simple dealt with She dealt with the loss admirably.
Present Continuous dealing with He is dealing with several issues at once.
Present Perfect have dealt with They have dealt with all complaints promptly.

💡 When to Use

Managing a task
Use when you're addressing or handling a task or issue needing attention.
Example: "She had to deal with the paperwork before leaving."
Facing a challenge
Use when confronting or managing a difficult or challenging situation.
Example: "They had to deal with the unexpected loss."
Interacting with people
Use when managing or handling relationships or interactions with people.
Example: "He's always had to deal with demanding clients."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect placement of object
❌ Wrong: She dealt paperwork with.
✅ Correct: She dealt with the paperwork.
💡 Tip: Always keep the phrase together with its object after.
Using intransitively
❌ Wrong: She deals very often.
✅ Correct: She deals with issues very often.
💡 Tip: Remember to include what is being dealt with.
Using wrong tense
❌ Wrong: He will dealt with it later.
✅ Correct: He will deal with it later.
💡 Tip: Ensure correct tense for auxiliary verbs.
Practice

DEAL WITH - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

handle manage

Antonyms

ignore

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The project manager needs to ___ with the budget issues soon."

deal about
deal with
deals with
dealed with

"In every life's journey, how you deal with challenges determines the tapestry of your experiences and the strength of your character."

In Context

During the late 18th century, William Wilberforce spearheaded the movement to abolish the transatlantic slave trade in Britain. As a member of Parliament, he had to deal with considerable opposition from those with vested interests in maintaining the status quo. Initially, his motions to end the slave trade failed, as critics challenged his persistence and strategic foresight. However, he continuously dealt with each setback by building alliances and gathering compelling evidence on the inhumanity of slavery. In 1807, Wilberforce finally succeeded in getting the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act passed. Despite the significant victory, Wilberforce continued to deal with the larger issue of slavery itself, dedicating the rest of his life to ensuring the complete abolition of slavery in the British Empire. In 1833, just days before his death, the Slavery Abolition Act was passed, marking the end of slavery in most parts of the British Empire. Wilberforce’s ability to deal with both personal and political adversities remains a testament to his unwavering commitment to justice and humanity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Deal With

What is the origin of deal with?

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Originating from the Old English 'dǣlan,' meaning to share or divide, 'deal with' evolved into a phrasal verb indicating addressing or managing something.

Can deal with be used in formal and informal contexts?

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Yes, 'deal with' is versatile and can be appropriately used in both formal documents or settings and informal conversations, suitable for most contexts.

What is the difference between deal with and handle?

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While both 'deal with' and 'handle' suggest managing or addressing something, 'handle' tends to imply a more physical or direct management, whereas 'deal with' can encompass broader, more abstract situations.
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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