B2verb1K

Handle

UK /["/ˈhændl/","/ˈhændlz/","/ˈhændld/","/ˈhændlɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈhændl/","/ˈhændlz/","/ˈhændld/","/ˈhændlɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to deal with a situation, a person, an area of work or a strong emotion

In simple words: To touch or manage something with your hands.

Examples

  • I can easily handle any situation that arises at work.
  • She learned how to handle the stress of her job effectively.
  • Can you handle the heavy boxes on your own?
  • He knows how to handle difficult customers with patience.
  • The manager asked who would handle the team project.
  • Make sure to handle the fragile items with care.
  • She was given the handle of the situation, so it was in good hands.
  • In this game, the player must handle multiple tasks at once.
  • The handle of the door was broken, making it hard to open.
  • He tightened the handle of the suitcase before lifting it.

Usage notes

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. Use 'handle with care' when discussing fragile items. Avoid using in situations where 'manage' is more appropriate, like handling a problem.

Grammar pattern

handle + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'hand' in 'handle' — you're using your hands to deal with something.

Collocations

  • competently
  • efficiently
  • properly
  • be able to
  • be unable to
  • can
  • with
  • carefully
  • with care
  • carelessly

Synonyms

  • manage
  • operate
  • control
  • grasp
  • tackle

Antonyms

  • neglect
  • ignore

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'manage' in non-physical contexts.
  • Using 'handle' with inanimate objects incorrectly (e.g., 'handle the book' instead of 'pick up the book').
  • Incorrectly saying 'handles' when referring to one action.