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handle

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈhændl/

KK: /ˈhændl/

intransitive verb
Definition

To operate or perform in a specific manner, especially in relation to control or management.


Example

The new car handles smoothly on the winding roads.


Tense Forms

Past: handled

Past Participle: handled


Conversation
Sloth A
How does your new car handle on the road?
Sloth B
It's great! It handles really well, even on sharp turns.
Sloth A
That's awesome! I need something that handles well in bad weather.
Sloth B
You should definitely test drive it; you'll be impressed.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
manage
operate
control
Antonyms
struggle
fail
fumble
noun
Definition

A part that is made for holding or operating something with your hand.


Example

She grabbed the handle of the door to open it.


Conversation
Sloth A
Can you help me fix this drawer?
Sloth B
Sure! It looks like the handle is broken.
Sloth A
Do you think we can just replace the handle?
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To manage or deal with something, especially in a skillful way.


Example

She knows how to handle difficult situations calmly.


Tense Forms

Past: handled

Past Participle: handled


Conversation
Sloth A
I really need to learn how to handle stress better.
Sloth B
Yeah, it can be tough sometimes. What have you tried?
Sloth A
I've been thinking about some techniques to handle my workload more efficiently.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Handle → The word 'handle' originates from Old English 'handlian', which means to manage or to deal with. It is derived from 'hand' (meaning the part of the body used for holding) and the suffix '-le', which indicates a verb form. Thus, 'handle' means to manage or deal with something using one's hands.

Memory Tip

Think of using your 'hands' to 'manage' or 'deal with' something — that's why 'handle' means to manage or control.

Visually Confused Words
rehandle
chandler
wandle
tandle
randle
pandle
hantle
hankle
Is this page helpful?
Definitely, that should be an easy fix!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grip
hold
lever
Antonyms
release
letgo
disregard
That sounds like a good plan! Maybe we can brainstorm some ideas together.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
manage
control
address
Antonyms
neglect
ignore
mismanage