Tomas
sort out the problem Hi! I'd like to know how would you say "we have to sort out the problem." Do you usually say it this way? I'm not sure if it sounds naturally or if there is a better way to say it e.g "we have to fix the problem".
Oct 21, 2014 9:05 AM
Answers · 2
2
'Sort out' is fine, and, as Johnny says, you don't even need to say 'problem' : the phrase 'We need to sort this out' tells you that there is a problem that needs to be dealt with. 'Fix' is used for something that is broken, and needs to be repaired.
October 21, 2014
2
I find that, most of the time, I don't need to use the word 'problem'. So, I would say: "We need to sort this out." "Let's sort this out." For me, 'sort out' refers to problems between people, like relationships or grudges, etc. Problems that involve both people. I use 'fix' for problems between me and the environment, like a broken computer or automobile. Also for problems between people that are my fault. For example: "I lied to my mom. I need to fix this." "My brother and I fought last night. We need to sort this out." "I need to fix my broken computer." "I need to sort out things between me and my girlfriend." When I use 'sort out', I'm implying that both sides have problems. When I use 'fix', I'm implying that the problem is mine alone. This is just my opinion, though.
October 21, 2014
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