deal with a problem

Meaning

To take action in order to solve a difficult situation, handle a challenge, or resolve a conflict. It implies taking responsibility and finding a solution.

Examples

• Our customer service team is trained to deal with a problem quickly.

  Our customer service team is trained to deal with a problem quickly.

• I have to deal with a problem regarding our latest shipment.

  I have to deal with a problem regarding our latest shipment.

• We need to deal with a problem before it gets any worse.

  We need to deal with a problem before it gets any worse.

• She knows how to deal with a problem without losing her temper.

  She knows how to deal with a problem without losing her temper.

• Instead of ignoring it, we must deal with a problem as soon as it arises.

  Instead of ignoring it, we must deal with a problem as soon as it arises.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ We need to deal a problem.

  ✓ We need to deal with a problem.

  The phrasal verb is 'deal with'. Without 'with', the verb 'deal' has different meanings, such as distributing cards or trading.

• ✗ He is dealing about the issue.

  ✓ He is dealing with the issue.

  'Deal' always pairs with the preposition 'with' when meaning to handle or resolve something.

Related Expressions

Practice

• As a manager, you must learn how to ___ calmly.

  💡 Handle or resolve an issue.

  Show answer

  deal with a problem

• We had to ___ concerning the server crash last night.

  💡 Manage or fix a difficult situation.

  Show answer

  deal with a problem