deal with
Meaning(s)
1. take action or make an agreement
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
deal with a problem/issue/client
Analysis
To 'deal with' something or someone means to engage with it or give it attention. To deal with something often involves solving a problem or providing a solution. You might ask in work, "Would you like me to deal with this client?", meaning that you intend to look after the client and solve any issues that they have. If you 'can't deal with' something it means you are having difficulty solving it. You might ask, "How will we deal with this problem?", in order to invite possible solutions. This expression can be used in social and professional contexts.
Social Examples (Basic)
- The Mayor's first task was to deal with the problem of anti-social behavior in the city.
- In order to get what he wanted, he had to deal with people he didn't like very much.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- "I will deal with this issue immediately," the CEO promised during the AGM.
- They shook hands and agreed to the sale of the car. It was good to deal with people you trusted.