Meaning & use

handle

verb·Everyday

To deal with, manage, or control a situation, task, or object.

See it in a sentence

She handled the angry customer calmly and resolved the complaint quickly.

He has never handled that much responsibility before this promotion.

A note on using this word

"Handle" works for both physical objects (handle the fragile vase) and abstract situations (handle the pressure), which makes it very versatile.

Words with a similar meaning

managedeal withcontrol

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

mishandle

Another way to use it

2. noun

The part of an object designed to be held or gripped.

The worn handle on the old suitcase finally snapped off completely.

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “handle”, then compare your use with the examples above.

Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.