Handle vs Deal: Usage Guidelines and Popular Confusions

Are you confused about whether to use “handle” or “deal” in a particular context? It’s a common dilemma, but fear not! We’re here to clear up any confusion and give you a better understanding of when to use each term.

Let’s address the question of which of the two is the proper word. The truth is, both “handle” and “deal” can be correct depending on the situation. However, there are some subtle differences between the two.

“Handle” generally means to manage or take care of something. For example, you might say “I can handle this project” to indicate that you are capable of managing it. It can also refer to physically manipulating or controlling an object, such as when you “handle” a tool or piece of equipment.

“Deal,” on the other hand, often implies a negotiation or exchange of some kind. You might say “I need to deal with this customer’s complaint” to indicate that you will be addressing their concerns. It can also refer to making an agreement or settling a dispute.

Now that we’ve clarified the definitions of each term, let’s dive deeper into when to use each one.

Define Handle

Handle is a verb that means to manage or control a situation or problem. It can also refer to the physical act of holding or manipulating an object. In business, handle can be used to describe the way a company manages its customers or clients.

For example, a customer service representative may handle a customer complaint by listening to the issue, offering a solution, and following up to ensure the problem is resolved. In manufacturing, a worker may handle a piece of equipment by operating it safely and efficiently.

The term handle can also be used in a negative context, such as when someone is unable to handle a difficult situation or task. This can indicate a lack of skill, experience, or emotional control.

Define Deal

Deal is a verb that means to take action in order to solve a problem or complete a task. It can also refer to the act of buying or selling goods or services. In business, deal can be used to describe the process of negotiating and finalizing a transaction.

For example, a salesperson may deal with a potential customer by presenting the benefits of a product or service, negotiating the price, and closing the sale. In finance, a professional may deal with complex financial instruments such as derivatives or options.

The term deal can also be used in a negative context, such as when someone is accused of making a deal that is unethical or illegal. This can indicate a lack of integrity or honesty.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using the right words in a sentence can make a huge difference in the way your message is conveyed. The words handle and deal are often used interchangeably, but they have slightly different meanings. Here’s how to use them correctly:

How To Use “Handle” In A Sentence

The word “handle” is often used to describe the act of managing or coping with a situation. It can also refer to physically holding or touching something. Here are some examples of how to use “handle” in a sentence:

• She was able to handle the pressure of the job.
• He carefully handled the fragile vase.
• Can you handle the responsibility of taking care of a pet?

As you can see, “handle” is used to describe how someone manages or deals with a situation or object.

How To Use “Deal” In A Sentence

The word “deal” can also refer to managing or coping with a situation, but it can also describe an agreement or transaction between two parties. Here are some examples of how to use “deal” in a sentence:

• We need to deal with this issue before it gets worse.
• They made a deal to split the profits 50/50.
• Can you deal with the fact that you didn’t get the promotion?

As you can see, “deal” is often used to describe an agreement or transaction, but it can also be used to describe how someone manages or copes with a situation.

Now that you know the difference between “handle” and “deal,” you can use them correctly in your writing and communication. Remember, using the right words can make all the difference!

More Examples Of Handle & Deal Used In Sentences

In order to fully understand the difference between handle and deal, it’s important to see them used in context. Here are some examples of how handle and deal can be used in a sentence:

Examples Of Using Handle In A Sentence

• He couldn’t handle the pressure and ended up quitting his job.
• She was able to handle the difficult customer with ease.
• The company needs to find a way to handle the increase in demand.
• Can you handle taking care of the kids for the weekend?
• The pilot was able to handle the turbulence and safely land the plane.
• She has a lot on her plate, but she’s able to handle it.
• He needs to learn how to handle criticism without getting defensive.
• The company hired a new manager to handle the day-to-day operations.
• He’s not sure if he can handle the long hours and demanding workload.
• The teacher was able to handle the disruptive student and keep the class on track.

Examples Of Using Deal In A Sentence

• The company needs to deal with the issue of employee turnover.
• She was able to deal with the difficult situation calmly and professionally.
• He’s not sure how to deal with the conflict between his coworkers.
• We need to deal with the problem before it gets any worse.
• The government needs to deal with the issue of climate change.
• She’s been dealing with health problems for years.
• He needs to learn how to deal with stress in a healthy way.
• The company is currently dealing with a lawsuit from a former employee.
• She’s been dealing with a difficult client for weeks.
• The team needs to deal with the fact that they lost the game and move on.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the words handle and deal, people often make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, these words have different meanings and using them incorrectly can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Using “Handle” Instead Of “Deal”

One common mistake is using “handle” instead of “deal” when referring to a business transaction or negotiation. While both words can be used in these contexts, “handle” implies a sense of control or management, while “deal” refers specifically to the act of making an agreement or arrangement.

For example, saying “I handled the negotiations with the client” suggests that you were in charge of the entire process, while saying “I dealt with the client” simply means that you made an agreement or arrangement with them.

2. Using “Deal” Instead Of “Handle”

On the other hand, using “deal” instead of “handle” can also be a mistake. While “deal” can refer to a business transaction or negotiation, it does not necessarily imply control or management.

For example, saying “I dealt with the situation” suggests that you simply addressed or resolved the issue, while saying “I handled the situation” implies that you were in charge of managing the situation.

3. Confusing The Two Words In Idiomatic Expressions

Another common mistake is confusing the two words in idiomatic expressions. For example, saying “I can handle the truth” instead of “I can deal with the truth” is incorrect, as the latter phrase is the correct idiomatic expression.

Similarly, saying “He dealt with the situation with kid gloves” instead of “He handled the situation with kid gloves” would be incorrect, as the latter phrase is the correct idiomatic expression.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

To avoid these common mistakes, it’s important to understand the specific meanings of “handle” and “deal” and use them appropriately in context. Here are some tips:

• When referring to a business transaction or negotiation, use “deal” to refer specifically to the act of making an agreement or arrangement.
• When referring to control or management of a situation, use “handle.”
• Be mindful of idiomatic expressions and use them correctly.

Context Matters

Choosing between the words “handle” and “deal” can depend on the context in which they are used. While both words can be used to describe managing a situation, they can have different connotations and implications depending on the context.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Here are some examples of different contexts and how the choice between handle and deal might change:

Context	Implication	Preferred Word Choice
Business Negotiations	Formal and professional	Deal
Customer Service	Empathetic and helpful	Handle
Personal Relationships	Informal and casual	Handle

In a business negotiation, the word “deal” is often preferred because it connotes a formal and professional approach to managing the situation. On the other hand, in a customer service context, the word “handle” is often used because it implies an empathetic and helpful approach to managing the situation. In personal relationships, the word “handle” is often preferred because it connotes an informal and casual approach to managing the situation.

It is important to consider the context in which you are using these words to ensure that you are conveying the appropriate tone and implication.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using handle and deal are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions worth noting.

1. Idiomatic Expressions

Idiomatic expressions are phrases that have a figurative meaning that cannot be deduced from the literal meaning of the words used. In some cases, handle and deal may be used interchangeably in idiomatic expressions.

Expression	Meaning	Usage
Handle with kid gloves	To treat delicately or carefully	Correct: He dealt with the situation with kid gloves. Correct: He handled the situation with kid gloves.
Deal a blow	To cause harm or damage	Correct: The news dealt a blow to his ego. Correct: The news handled a blow to his ego.

2. Regional Differences

There may be regional differences in the usage of handle and deal. In some areas, one word may be preferred over the other.

For example, in British English, handle is often used in place of deal in certain contexts.

• Correct: Can you handle the cooking tonight?
• Correct: Can you deal with the cooking tonight?
• Incorrect: Can you deal the cooking tonight?

3. Contextual Differences

The context in which handle and deal are used can also affect their usage. In some cases, one word may be more appropriate than the other.

For instance, handle may be more appropriate when referring to physical objects, while deal may be more appropriate when referring to abstract concepts or situations.

• Correct: She handled the fragile vase with care.
• Correct: He dealt with the difficult situation by remaining calm and composed.

Overall, while the rules for using handle and deal are generally straightforward, it is important to be aware of the exceptions where their usage may vary.

Practice Exercises

Now that we’ve covered the differences between handle and deal, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Below are some practice exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these two words in sentences:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Choose the correct word to fill in the blank:

1. Can you handle/deal with this difficult customer?
2. I’m not sure if I can handle/deal with the pressure of this job.
3. She’s been handling/dealing with the company’s finances for years.
4. We need to handle/deal with this issue before it gets worse.

Answer Key:

1. deal
2. handle
3. handling
4. deal

Exercise 2: Sentence Rewrites

Rewrite the following sentences using either handle or deal:

1. He’s not good at managing difficult situations.
2. She’s been managing the company’s finances for years.
3. Can you manage this project on your own?
4. We need to manage this issue before it gets worse.

Answer Key:

1. He can’t handle/deal with difficult situations.
2. She’s been handling/dealing with the company’s finances for years.
3. Can you handle/deal with this project on your own?
4. We need to handle/deal with this issue before it gets worse.

By completing these practice exercises, you’ll be on your way to confidently using handle and deal in your everyday language.

Conclusion

After exploring the nuances between “handle” and “deal”, it is clear that these two words are often used interchangeably, but they do have distinct differences in meaning and usage.

Here are the key takeaways from this article:

• Handle is typically used to refer to the physical act of touching or manipulating something, while deal is used to refer to the process of managing or coping with a situation.
• Handle can also be used as a noun to refer to a tool or mechanism for grasping or manipulating something, while deal can be used as a noun to refer to an agreement or arrangement between two parties.
• It is important to use these words correctly in order to avoid confusion or miscommunication.

As with any aspect of language and grammar, there is always more to learn and explore. By continuing to study and practice, readers can improve their understanding and mastery of the English language.