“Deal with It” Meaning, Origin and Examples

The phrase “deal with it” is a frequently used idiomatic phrase that you will hear and see often. If you have ever wondered about this phrase, then you have come to the right place. Here you will learn the meaning of this phrase and also learn of its origin if there is any specific information available to offer. You will see the phrase used in some example sentences and conversations to better enhance your understanding of the phrase and help you to use it yourself. Before leaving, you can look at some final suggestions that will act as alternatives to using the phrase “deal with it” and still permit you to convey the same meaning.

“Deal with It” Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • The phrase “deal with it” means to accept or confront a difficult situation or problem and to take action to handle it. It often implies that one must face reality and find a solution or cope with the circumstances, even if they are unpleasant or challenging.
Deal With It
Deal with It – Created by 7ESL

“Deal with It” Meaning

The phrase “deal with it” means to confront or manage a situation, problem, or emotion in a practical or straightforward manner. It suggests accepting the reality of a situation and taking action to address it, rather than avoiding it or complaining about it.

Examples:

  • “I know the project is challenging, but you need to deal with it and find a solution.”
  • “She was upset about the change in plans, but I told her to deal with it and move on.”

Origin of This Idiom

The phrase “deal with it” came from the origin of the word “deal.” The word “deal” has been used since the 15th century to mean cope or face something. Even though this is the case, the phrase “deal with it” was not popularized or widely used until the early 2000s. The phrase exploded during this time due to a popular GIF that was posted in response to situations on the internet on social media and other social websites.

Usage of “Deal with It”

  • In response to a problem:

“I understand that the new schedule isn’t ideal, but we have to deal with it for now.”

  • Talking about a difficult situation:

“Life can be tough sometimes, and we just have to deal with it as best as we can.”

  • During a conversation about expectations:

“If you want to succeed in this industry, you need to deal with it when things don’t go your way.”

  • In a casual or assertive tone:

“That’s how things are, so just deal with it!”

Related Terms to “Deal with It”

  • Handle it – to take care of or manage a situation or problem.
  • Face it – to confront a difficult reality or challenge directly.
  • Coping – the process of managing stress or difficulties effectively.
  • Accept it – to recognize and come to terms with a situation as it is.
  • Tough it out – to endure a difficult situation with resilience.
  • Get over it – to move past a situation or emotion, often implying a need for emotional recovery.
  • Take it in stride – to accept something difficult without becoming upset or overwhelmed.
  • Work through it – to process and resolve a problem step by step.
  • Sort it out – to clarify or resolve a confusing or complicated situation.
  • Move on – to stop dwelling on a problem or negative experience and continue forward.

Alternatives to “Deal with It”

Many words or phrases can be used in place of the phrase “deal with it” to convey the same meaning. Some alternative ways to say this phrase include:

  • Handle it
  • Address it
  • Face it

“Deal with It” Examples

Example Sentences

  • My mom raised me to believe that life is hard and I would just have to deal with it.
  • Margaret was told to just deal with it until she could get a replacement after she dropped her phone and the screen cracked.
  • I don’t have the energy to deal with it right now.
  • Sandra will deal with it. That woman has a genius for organization.
  • You can’t change your situation. The only thing that you can change is how you choose to deal with it.

Example Conversations

A conversation between a husband and his wife,

  • Husband: Someone needs to go grocery shopping today or we will have nothing for dinner.
  • Wife: Well, you will have to deal with it. I have too much on my plate today between work, taking care of the kids, and making sure all the bills get paid tonight.
  • Husband: Okay, I can do it. Just make me a list!

A conversation between a high school principal and vice-principal.

  • Vice-Principal: We have two more new students coming in today.
  • Principal: You will have to deal with it. I need to address the two students who got into a fight in the cafeteria yesterday.
  • Vice-Principal: Not a problem, ma’am. I can show them around the school and get them settled in.
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