A2noun1K

Sort

UK /["/sɔːt/"]/US /["/sɔːrt/"]/

Definition

a group or type of people or things that are similar in a particular way

In simple words: To arrange things in a particular order.

Examples

  • Please sort these documents into different folders.
  • Can you help me sort these items by size?
  • You need to sort your clothes before doing laundry.
  • This sort of behavior is unacceptable in our class.
  • What sort of music do you enjoy listening to?
  • He wants to sort out his problems before going on vacation.
  • Which sort of fruits do you prefer: apples or oranges?
  • This sort of food is very healthy and nutritious.
  • They need to sort things out after the argument.

Usage notes

Use 'sort' when discussing organizing items, data, or categories. It can be used in both spoken and written contexts. Avoid in formal academic writing where 'categorize' or 'organize' may be more suitable.

Grammar pattern

sort + object

Memory hint

Think of 'sort it out' to remember this means to organize.

Collocations

  • best
  • worst
  • right
  • sort of

Synonyms

  • kind

Antonyms

  • disorder
  • mix
  • confuse

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'sought' — not the same meaning.
  • Using 'sort' without an object; it usually needs something to sort.
  • Misusing it as a noun when it is primarily a verb.