reconcile the differences

USAGE SUMMARY

"reconcile the differences" is a correct phrase that can be used in written English.
It means to find a way to resolve or bring together conflicting opinions, perspectives, or ideas. Example: The mediator was able to successfully reconcile the differences between the two parties and help them reach a compromise.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

These results not only provide compelling evidence that ChIP-chip and ChIP-seq reveal different nucleosomal architectures, but also helped reconcile the differences in marking patterns which we observed with ChIP-chip from that which others observed with ChIP-seq [19], [20], [22], [28].

Plosone

After months of delay, a conference committee will meet later this month to reconcile the differences.

The New York Times

While the lawyers suggested some opposing interpretations of the impeachment process, committee members said they did not feel pressed to reconcile the differences.

The New York Times

Democrats also wanted assurances they would have an equal number of senators on so-called conference committees -- those committees that reconcile the differences between House and Senate bills.

The New York Times

Whoever the new secretary general is, he (so far, no woman has been mentioned) will have to reconcile the differences within the alliance.

The New York Times

Here again, the stimulus process is illustrative, specifically at the point when negotiators for the two chambers met to reconcile the differences in their bills.

The New York Times - Magazine

If the company "can't satisfactorily reconcile the differences," the chief executive, Marce Fuller, said she would order a reauditing of financial statements.

The New York Times

Staff members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees have been trying to reconcile the differences between their versions of the bill for two weeks.

The New York Times

And it reaches back further, trying to reconcile the differences that divided modernist architects from their Art Deco counterparts in the 30's.

The New York Times

The Senate and House passed versions of the legislation in March, and a conference was scheduled for this fall to reconcile the differences.

The New York Times

House and Senate negotiators still must sit down and reconcile the differences between the two bills, assuming the House bill is approved.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reconcile the differences", ensure that the context clearly indicates what specific discrepancies or conflicts are being addressed. Providing context makes the statement more impactful and understandable.

Common error

Avoid using "reconcile the differences" as a generic solution for intricate problems. Acknowledge the depth of disagreements before suggesting reconciliation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reconcile the differences" functions as a verb phrase within a sentence, typically serving as the predicate or part of the predicate. As shown by Ludwig AI, it indicates an action aimed at resolving inconsistencies or disagreements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

31%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reconcile the differences" is a commonly used phrase that means to find ways to resolve disagreements or inconsistencies. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and suitable for a variety of contexts. Predominantly found in "News & Media" and "Science", it conveys an intent to harmonize or bring into agreement. To enhance your writing, be specific about the differences being reconciled and avoid oversimplifying complex issues. Consider alternatives like "resolve the discrepancies" or "bridge the gap" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolve the discrepancies

Focuses on resolving inconsistencies rather than necessarily harmonizing different viewpoints.

bridge the gap

Implies reducing the distance or disagreement between two or more parties or ideas.

harmonize the disparities

Emphasizes creating a harmonious agreement from conflicting elements.

iron out the disagreements

Suggests smoothing out minor differences through discussion and compromise.

settle the conflicts

Focuses on ending disputes or arguments.

find common ground

Highlights the process of discovering shared beliefs or interests despite disagreements.

bring into agreement

Emphasizes the act of causing parties to concur or align.

find a compromise

Focuses on reaching a mutually acceptable agreement through concessions.

reach a consensus

Suggests achieving widespread agreement among a group.

negotiate an understanding

Highlights the process of discussion and bargaining to achieve mutual comprehension.

FAQs

How do you use "reconcile the differences" in a sentence?

You can use "reconcile the differences" to describe the act of finding a way to make opposing ideas or facts consistent with each other. For example, "The committee worked to reconcile the differences between the two proposals."

What are some alternatives to "reconcile the differences"?

Some alternatives include "resolve the discrepancies", "bridge the gap", or "find common ground", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "reconcile differences" or "resolve differences"?

While both are valid, "reconcile differences" often implies a deeper level of harmonization and understanding, while "resolve differences" can simply mean settling a dispute. The best choice depends on the desired nuance.

What does it mean to "reconcile the differences" between two documents?

To "reconcile the differences" between two documents means to compare them and identify any discrepancies or inconsistencies, and then to find a way to make them consistent with each other.