Reckon with sb Meaning & Examples: How to Use This Phrasal Verb

May 2, 2024

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What Does “Reckon with sb” Mean?

“Reckon with sb” means to consider someone as important or powerful and to deal with them seriously.

Introduction

The phrasal verb “reckon with sb” is often used when talking about people or things you cannot ignore. It suggests that the person or thing is strong, important, or influential enough that you must take them seriously. Understanding the reckon with sb meaning helps you recognize when someone or something has a significant impact or power in a situation. This phrase is common in both spoken and written English, especially when discussing challenges or powerful figures.

Quick Info Box

Phrasal verb: reckon with somebody
Type: Transitive
Level: B2
Short meaning: To take someone seriously or deal with someone powerful

Structure (Grammar Rules)

“Reckon with sb” is an inseparable phrasal verb. You cannot put the object between “reckon” and “with.”

Correct pattern: reckon with + somebody

Incorrect pattern: reckon somebody with

How to Use Reckon with sb?

Use “reckon with sb” when you want to express that someone is important or strong enough to be considered seriously. It often appears in contexts like competition, conflict, or respect. For example, you might say a sports team is a tough opponent because you must “reckon with” their skills.

Examples

In sports, when a team wins often, other teams know they must reckon with them.

The new manager is someone you really have to reckon with.
He’s a brilliant lawyer, and opposing him means you have to reckon with a tough opponent.
In business, big companies like Amazon are forces to reckon with.
She’s proven to be a leader you must reckon with in this industry.
When it comes to technology, you have to reckon with rapid changes.

These examples show how “reckon with sb” is used in real situations.

Common Mistakes

People often confuse the word order or try to separate the phrasal verb incorrectly.

Incorrect: You must reckon him with.
Correct: You must reckon with him.
Incorrect: We should reckon the problem with.
Correct: We should reckon with the problem.

Remember, “reckon with” stays together.

Differences / Synonyms

Similar phrasal verbs include “deal with” and “face up to.” However, “reckon with sb” emphasizes respect or fear for someone’s power or importance.

Deal with: To handle or manage a situation or person.
Face up to: To accept and confront something difficult.
Reckon with sb: To recognize someone as a serious, powerful presence.

For example, “You have to deal with your problems” is different from “You have to reckon with your opponent,” which shows respect for their strength.

Common Collocations

We often use “reckon with” with people or problems that are significant.

Reckon with an opponent: To take a competitor seriously.
Reckon with a challenge: To face a difficult situation.
Reckon with a rival: To recognize a competitor’s strength.
Reckon with consequences: To accept the results of an action.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Here are related phrasal verbs of reckon with sb:

Real-life Dialogue

Here is a simple conversation showing how “reckon with sb” is used:

Anna: Have you heard about the new coach?
Ben: Yes, he’s tough. Everyone says he’s someone you really have to reckon with.
Anna: Sounds like the team will improve a lot this season.

Practice

Fill in the blanks with the correct form of “reckon with”:

This year’s champion is a player you must _______.
When starting a new business, you have to _______ unexpected problems.
That competitor is strong; we really need to _______ her.

FAQ

What does “reckon with sb” mean?

It means to consider someone important or powerful and to deal with them seriously.

Is “reckon with sb” separable?

No, it is an inseparable phrasal verb. The object always comes after “reckon with.”

Can I use “reckon with” for problems?

Yes, you can say “reckon with a problem” to mean dealing seriously with it.

What is a synonym for “reckon with sb”?

“Deal with” or “face up to” are similar, but “reckon with” often shows respect for power.

Is “reckon with” formal or informal?

It is commonly used in both formal and informal English.