sort out

1 of 2

verb

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).

sort-out

2 of 2

noun

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

Verb

Up to two temporary restraining orders could be granted before the coalition seeks a preliminary injunction, putting the deal on ice while it's sorted out in court. — Lillian Rizzo, CNBC, 14 July 2026

If there’s an awful lot of history to sort out before England-Argentina kicks off, the France-Spain backstory is arguably more workmanlike. — Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 14 July 2026

Bendix and his staff can sort out the details after the amateur draft, which starts on Saturday. — Ken Rosenthal, New York Times, 10 July 2026

In the coming weeks, Mason and co-counselors Matt Smid and Mark Daniel will come together to sort out what could’ve gone better with their defense strategy during this trial, Mason said. — Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 July 2026

Rhymes for sort out

• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout
• checkout
• closeout
• cutout
• devout
• dropout