a satisfactory conclusion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a satisfactory conclusion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the outcome of a situation, event, or argument that meets expectations or requirements. Example: "After several hours of negotiation, both parties were pleased to reach a satisfactory conclusion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I've never reached a satisfactory conclusion over that one.

The Guardian - Music

The pressure is mounting: Will "The Good Wife" come to a satisfactory conclusion?

The New Yorker

There is still hope for a satisfactory conclusion to this debate.

The New York Times

I would be grateful if you could help bring this to a satisfactory conclusion.

The Guardian - Money

It is disappointing that this case has taken so long to reach a satisfactory conclusion".

Independent

It's a debate that's unlikely to reach a satisfactory conclusion — either legally or politically — for either side anytime soon.

The Washington Post

He had hoped that scenario might change after the Test series against India had come to such a satisfactory conclusion.

The Guardian - Sport

But he took on the most contentious diplomatic issue of our time and pursued it to a satisfactory conclusion.

The New York Times

But it's far harder to say whether a visit to an art gallery has reached a satisfactory conclusion.

Independent

In a presentation to the agency's council in April, Mr. Graziano pledged to bring internal reform to "a satisfactory conclusion".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It can be brought to a satisfactory conclusion and convincingly verified using arbitrary data.

The Air Engine Stirling Cycle Power for a Sustainable Future

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a satisfactory conclusion" when you want to convey that a process, discussion, or event has ended in a way that meets the required expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "a satisfactory conclusion" in very informal settings; simpler phrases like "good ending" or "it worked out" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a satisfactory conclusion" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., reached, bring to, find). It describes the ending of a process or situation that meets a certain standard of acceptability or fulfillment. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase accurately convey the achievement of an expected outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a satisfactory conclusion" is a versatile phrase used to describe an ending that meets required expectations, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is grammatically correct and sees common usage across diverse contexts, especially in news, scientific, and business domains. While adaptable, its formality makes it less suited for casual conversations. To enhance writing, consider using semantically similar alternatives like "a satisfying conclusion" or "a favorable resolution" to add variety, while being mindful of potential misuse in overly informal settings. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating the appropriate use of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A satisfying conclusion

Replaces "satisfactory" with "satisfying", emphasizing the feeling of contentment.

A successful resolution

Uses "successful resolution", focusing on the achievement of a desired result.

A favorable resolution

Uses "favorable resolution" instead, highlighting a positive and formal result.

A fitting culmination

Replaces with a more formal phrase suggesting a suitable end.

A happy conclusion

Substitutes "satisfactory" with "happy", focusing on a positive outcome.

An efficient finalization

Replaces to emphasize speed and effectiveness in reaching the end.

A positive outcome

Replaces the entire phrase with a more general term for a good result.

A desirable result

Replaces the entire phrase to emphasize the preference for the outcome.

An acceptable ending

Changes "satisfactory" to "acceptable" and "conclusion" to "ending", indicating a passable result.

An adequate finish

Substitutes with more basic terms, suggesting a barely acceptable result.

FAQs

How can I use "a satisfactory conclusion" in a sentence?

You can use "a satisfactory conclusion" to describe the end of a process or event that meets expectations. For example: "The negotiations reached "a satisfactory conclusion" after several hours".

What are some alternatives to "a satisfactory conclusion"?

Some alternatives include "a satisfying conclusion", "a happy conclusion", or "a favorable resolution", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "satisfactory conclusion" or "successful conclusion"?

While both are correct, "satisfactory conclusion" implies that the outcome meets the necessary requirements, whereas "successful conclusion" suggests that the outcome achieved a desired goal. The better choice depends on the context.

Can "a satisfactory conclusion" be used in both formal and informal contexts?

"A satisfactory conclusion" is generally suitable for formal and neutral contexts. In very informal settings, simpler phrases might be more appropriate, such as "it worked out well" or "good ending".