sorted out; sorting out; sorts out
1
: to understand or find (something, such as a reason or a solution) by thinking
I'm trying to sort out a way to do it.
2
: to find an answer or solution for (something)
He's still trying to sort out his problems.
We need to get these problems sorted out as soon as possible.
They couldn't come up with a solution and decided to wait to see whether problem sorted itself out.
3
: to solve the problems of (someone)
They're still trying to sort their son out.
I just need a little more time to sort myself out.
4
British, informal
: to deal in a forceful way with (someone who is causing problems)
I told my brother they were bullying me, and he promised to sort them out (for me).
British
: an activity in which someone makes a room, closet, etc., neat and organized
Let's have a sort-out of the attic.
Examples of sort out in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Ron Schmelzer, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025
As Rod Mitchell’s child, Nicole Mitchell’s name was on probate court papers as Carol Mitchell sorted out Rod Mitchell’s affairs.
—Ingrid Harbo, Twin Cities, 17 July 2025
After Parsons had another strong season in Dallas, he was left confused why his situation couldn't get sorted out sooner.
—Justin Grasso, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 July 2025
The couple agreed to rent in the interim until the property was sorted out, paying $12,000 a month in rent to Hazel.
—Stephanie Kuzydym, The Courier-Journal, 2 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for sort out
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Phrasal verb
While lawmakers and regulators are still sorting out how to manage AI, companies aren’t waiting.
—Ron Schmelzer, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025
As Rod Mitchell’s child, Nicole Mitchell’s name was on probate court papers as Carol Mitchell sorted out Rod Mitchell’s affairs.
—Ingrid Harbo, Twin Cities, 17 July 2025
After Parsons had another strong season in Dallas, he was left confused why his situation couldn't get sorted out sooner.
—Justin Grasso, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 July 2025
The couple agreed to rent in the interim until the property was sorted out, paying $12,000 a month in rent to Hazel.
—Stephanie Kuzydym, The Courier-Journal, 2 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for sort out
Cite this Entry
“Sort out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sort%20out. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.
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