Definition of sort out

The origin of the phrase "sort out" dates back to the mid-19th century. The term "sort" itself has an Old English root, "sortian," meaning "to distribute" or "divide." It is believed to have originated from the Germanic word "sazza," which translates to "to separate." The usage of "sort out" as a verb first appeared in the late 1850s, with the meaning of "to arrange or put in order." The phrase "sort something out" initially referred to sorting through items to categorize or classify them, as in "sorting out one's thoughts" or "sorting out one's papers." Over time, the meaning expanded to encompass the concept of problem-solving, decision-making, and finding solutions to complex issues. "Sorting out a situation" today denotes resolving a problem, figuring out a solution, or clarifying an ambiguous situation. In conclusion, the origin of "sort out" can be traced back to the Old English word "sortian." The term has evolved over time, retaining its core meaning while also developing new connotations over the centuries. Today, the phrase "sort out" is widely used in English-speaking countries, both verbally and in written communication.