could be settled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be settled" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the resolution of a dispute, issue, or situation that has the potential to be resolved. Example: "The disagreement between the two parties could be settled through mediation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That case could be settled this year.

The Guardian - Business

Sports disputes could be settled much more efficiently through mediation, according to a new article.

Harvard University

Yet even before the details could be settled, opposition groups began protesting.

The Economist

But their benefits could be settled after the overall agreement is ratified.

The New York Times - Sports

The case could be settled before the trial is scheduled to begin on March 19.

The New York Times - Sports

An embarrassed Navin wanted to cancel the games until the strike could be settled.

The New York Times - Sports

The outlines of a deal could be settled tomorrow, were both sides willing.

The Economist

"He'd give you the stamp," she said; accounts could be settled later.

The New York Times

Biosolids concentration was reduced in the upper zone because the mixed liquor could be settled down to the lower zone.

Desalination

Or were they property, in which case ownership could be settled as in a property dispute?

The New York Times

They see protracted arguments that could be settled in 30 seconds of face-to-face conversation.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could be settled", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being resolved and the means or methods by which resolution is achieved. For example, "The dispute "could be settled" through mediation."

Common error

Avoid using "could be settled" excessively in contexts where active voice would be more direct and impactful. For instance, instead of "The matter "could be settled" by the committee", consider "The committee could settle the matter".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be settled" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating a possibility or potential outcome. It suggests that a situation or dispute has the capacity to be resolved. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "could be settled" is a versatile modal verb phrase that denotes the possibility of resolution or agreement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and enjoys widespread use across various contexts, most notably in news and media, academia, and encyclopedias. Its neutral register allows it to fit seamlessly into both formal and informal communication. Related phrases like "might be resolved" and "can be resolved" offer nuanced alternatives depending on the desired emphasis. Remember to use this phrase actively, clearly indicating what is being settled and by what means, and avoid overuse in contexts where active voice provides more direct impact. By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate the potential for resolution in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might be resolved

Suggests a possibility of resolution, similar to "could be settled", but with a slightly weaker degree of certainty.

can be resolved

Indicates a capability or possibility of resolving something, focusing more on the feasibility.

may be resolved

Expresses a possibility of resolution, using "may" to suggest a slightly more formal tone.

is able to be resolved

Highlights the ability to resolve, emphasizing capability and potential action.

is capable of resolution

Focuses on the inherent capability of the situation to be resolved, emphasizing its potential.

has the potential to be resolved

Underscores the existing potential for resolution, indicating inherent possibilities.

is open to resolution

Suggests a willingness or opportunity for resolution, implying active consideration.

is subject to resolution

Highlights that the issue is under consideration and can potentially be resolved.

remains to be resolved

Indicates that the resolution is pending or yet to occur, emphasizing a future action.

awaits resolution

Suggests that the situation is in a state of waiting for a resolution, emphasizing anticipation.

FAQs

How to use "could be settled" in a sentence?

You can use "could be settled" to express the possibility of resolving a conflict, debt, or issue. For example, "The legal case "could be settled" out of court".

What can I say instead of "could be settled"?

You can use alternatives like "might be resolved", "can be resolved", or "may be resolved" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "could be settled" and "could be resolved"?

While both phrases convey the possibility of reaching a conclusion, ""could be settled"" often implies a formal agreement or compromise, particularly in legal or financial contexts. "could be resolved" is more general and applies to a wider range of issues.

When is it appropriate to use "could be settled" in formal writing?

"Could be settled" is appropriate in formal writing when discussing potential resolutions to disputes, debts, or agreements. Ensure the context is clear and the tone aligns with the formality of the document or communication. For example, in business reports or legal documents.