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deal with

to handle or manage

In Phrasal Verbs

In more detail

1. (verb) to handle or take action about something difficult or unpleasant

2. (verb) to do business with someone or buy from a company

3. (verb) to manage or cope with a situation or problem

Examples

• 1. The government needs to deal with the problem of pollution.
• 2. We deal with several suppliers for our office equipment.
• 3. I'm still trying to deal with the loss of my pet.

How to use deal with

Deal with is a common phrasal verb used when someone takes action to resolve or manage something problematic or challenging. It can refer to practical handling (deal with complaints), emotional coping (deal with anxiety), or business relationships (deal with suppliers). Unlike manage, it often emphasizes confronting or addressing difficulty directly.

Common phrases

• deal with a problem
• deal with a situation
• deal with stress
• deal with a customer
• deal with complaints

Synonyms

handle · manage · tackle · cope with · address

Word family

dealer · dealing

A common mistake

Learners sometimes omit the preposition and say 'deal the problem' instead of 'deal with the problem'.

Nearby in Phrasal Verbs

come up with, count on, cut down on, draw up, drop off, figure out

Keep going

How to remember the words you read · Spaced repetition, explained