A2verb1K

Deal

UK /["/diːl/","/diːlz/","/delt/","/ˈdiːlɪŋ/"]/US /["/diːl/","/diːlz/","/delt/","/ˈdiːlɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to give cards to each player in a game of cards

In simple words: an agreement or arrangement between people

Examples

  • Whose turn is it to deal?
  • Start by dealing out ten cards to each player.
  • He dealt me two aces.
  • You can often see people dealing openly on the streets.
  • He was sent to jail for dealing drugs to his friends.
  • Her sudden death dealt a blow to the whole country.
  • That's the way it is, so deal with it!

Usage notes

Use 'deal' in both formal and informal contexts. It's suitable for discussions about agreements and negotiations, but avoid using it in overly casual situations or in written academic contexts.

Grammar pattern

deal + with + object

Memory hint

Think of 'deal' as making a 'deal' with two hands shaking.

Collocations

  • deal with
  • make a deal
  • deal out
  • deal in
  • deal breaker

Synonyms

  • agreement
  • arrangement
  • transaction
  • bargain
  • contract

Antonyms

  • refuse
  • deny
  • revoke

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'realize' and use it incorrectly in phrases.
  • Omitting the need for a preposition when saying what you deal with.
  • Using 'deal' as a noun instead of a verb.