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.