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deal with — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 meanings. Learn them one at a time, then test yourself.

phrasal verb2 meanings
deal with
handle a problembe about a topic

Meaning 1 · most common

handle a problem

  • deal with sth
A scene showing “deal with” meaning “handle a problem”.

to take action to solve a problem or manage a difficult situation.

How oftenVery common
LevelB1
Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

She had to deal with a lot of stress at her new job.

A: The washing machine broke again.
B: Ugh, I'll deal with it after dinner.

Common mistake

Not: Don't worry, I'll deal it.

Say: Don't worry, I'll deal with it.

Always 'deal WITH' + object — never drop 'with' (bare 'deal' means hand out cards).

More on “handle a problem”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

In my opinion, learning how to deal with difficult people is an important life skill.

Tell it apart

I deal with the suppliers.

  • handle / manage

The dealer deals the cards.

  • hand out

Goes with

  • deal with + challenge
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Next meaning: be about a topic

Meaning 2

be about a topic

  • deal with sth
A scene showing “deal with” meaning “be about a subject”.

to be concerned with or focus on a particular subject or issue.

How oftenCommon
LevelB2
Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

The documentary deals with climate change and its effects on wildlife.

A: What's that novel about?
B: It deals with family relationships and forgiveness.

Common mistake

Not: The book deals about the war.

Say: The book deals with the war.

'Deal WITH' a topic — not 'deal about'.

More on “be about a topic”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

Many university courses deal with topics that are relevant to modern society.

Tell it apart

The film deals with grief.

  • is about that subject

The manager dealt with the complaint.

  • handled / resolved it

Goes with

  • deal with + topic
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handle a problembe about a topic