achieve closure

USAGE SUMMARY

"achieve closure" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is often used to describe the process of resolving unfinished business or bringing an end to a difficult situation. For example, "After months of negotiations with the government, the family was finally able to achieve closure on their son's death."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

To achieve closure on rendition we need disclosure.

The Guardian

Maybe then, and only then, we can achieve closure and move on.

The Guardian - Opinion

The fair way to achieve closure here is through the report that the independent counsel must file in court.

The New York Times

I have taken steps over the years to achieve closure but never seem to have attained it.

The New York Times

"If we can achieve closure, then at this moment in time that would be my recommendation," the McLaren chief, Ron Dennis, said.

The New York Times - Sports

A letter of condolence can contribute to the healing of a bereaved family and help achieve closure in the relationship between the physician and the patient's family".

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

He's at peace, has achieved closure.

The New Yorker

Coping isn't the same as achieving closure.

The New York Times

People said afterwards: have you achieved closure?" He snorts.

The Guardian

"Thanks Figo", giggled this morning's Sport, finally achieving closure.

The Guardian - Sport

"It wasn't what I expected," Nathalie/ David told Steve/Marnie, "but I've achieved closure".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "achieve closure", ensure that the context clearly indicates what specific issue or situation is being resolved. For emotional or personal situations, consider the sensitivity of the term and whether it accurately reflects the experience of those involved.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "achieving closure" completely erases the impact of past events. While it signifies resolution, it does not necessarily equate to forgetting or a total absence of lingering emotions. Closure is about finding peace, not erasing history.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "achieve closure" functions as a verb phrase where "achieve" acts as a transitive verb, taking "closure" as its direct object. It describes the action of successfully reaching a state of resolution or finality. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

32%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "achieve closure" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe reaching a state of resolution or finality. Ludwig AI validates its use in various contexts, spanning from news and media to scientific and academic discussions. Its neutral register makes it widely applicable, although careful consideration should be given to the emotional implications in personal contexts. When looking for alternative expressions, consider phrases such as "attain resolution" or "resolve the issue" to convey similar meanings. As Ludwig's examples highlight, "achieve closure" is a valuable tool for expressing the completion of a process or the resolution of a difficult situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolve the issue

Highlights the act of solving or addressing a problem, offering a more active perspective on achieving closure.

attain resolution

Focuses on the act of resolving an issue, similar to achieving closure but emphasizes the resolution process.

finalize matters

Emphasizes the completion and confirmation of details, focusing on the concluding steps.

find resolution

Implies a search or discovery process leading to resolution, adding an element of finding a solution.

bring finality

Focuses on the state of being final and unchangeable, highlighting the conclusive nature of closure.

reach a conclusion

Highlights the end point of a process or deliberation, similar to closure but more formal.

conclude proceedings

Used in formal contexts like legal or official settings, it refers to officially ending a series of actions or events.

bring to an end

Focuses on the act of ending something, which can be a process or a situation, similar to achieving closure.

settle the matter

Emphasizes resolving a dispute or problem, suggesting a formal agreement or decision.

put to rest

Indicates finalizing something to prevent it from resurfacing, often used for rumors or concerns.

FAQs

How is "achieve closure" typically used in a sentence?

You can use "achieve closure" to describe resolving a difficult situation, as in, "The investigation helped the families "achieve closure" on the tragic event".

What are some alternatives to "achieve closure"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases such as "attain resolution", "reach a conclusion", or "resolve the issue".

Is "achieve closure" formal or informal?

"Achieve closure" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though its appropriateness depends on the specific situation. It's commonly found in news reports, academic papers, and everyday conversations.

What does it really mean to "achieve closure"?

To "achieve closure" means to reach a point of acceptance and resolution regarding a past event, relationship, or situation, allowing one to move forward without being unduly burdened by it.