resolve

USAGE SUMMARY

The word “resolve” is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the action of attempting to find a solution, often through determination or a decision. For example, "We resolved to make a change in our company to be more environmentally friendly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Dundee's manager, Paul Hartley, was happy with his side's resolve as they fought to a 1-1 draw in tricky weather conditions at Inverness.

The Guardian - Sport

Hollywood also found it easier to tackle these issues through the prism of the musical, as in 1957's The Pajama Game, where Doris Day and her factory superintendent resolve their industrial dispute by falling in love.

The Guardian - Film

He said Hunter would work with the APY executive to resolve administration problems, and that the South Australian government would "explore all options available to restore stable governance in the APY".

The Guardian

But, Abu Ahmed recalled, the jailers had a very different impression of Baghdadi – they saw him as a conciliatory and calming influence in an environment short on certainty, and turned to him to help resolve conflicts among the inmates.

The Guardian

Earlier this year, Xydakis roundly condemned the British Museum's decision rejecting a Unesco offer to help resolve the dispute more than 200 years after the sculptures were controversially removed from Athens' greatest temple, the Parthenon, by the seventh Earl of Elgin during his tenure as ambassador to the Ottoman Empire.

The Guardian - Arts

For a week I schedule a string of yoga and surfing classes and resolve to explore the wonders of Byron Bay.

The Guardian - Travel

If the security problems posed by the royal visit were, and still are, a major challenge to the Irish state's authority, the presence of the Queen is also a big test of the republican dissidents' resolve.

The Guardian

I listen to their story of woe, try to offer ideas, and secretly resolve that next time I'll pretend I'm a film director instead.

The Guardian

We will return to carry out further inspections at the trust and we are working urgently with Monitor to resolve these issues.

The Guardian

Then ate a hotel breakfast – carrot juice, omelette, lentils, salad, salmon – with no bread, no croissant; my new resolve on diet.

The Guardian

We vertebrates must have the strength of character and resolve to make sure that our students are nurtured and stimulated.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "resolve" in formal writing, ensure the subject clearly indicates who or what is performing the resolving action. For example, "The committee resolved the issue" is clearer than "The issue was resolved."

Common error

Avoid using "resolve" (a verb meaning to find a solution or make a firm decision) when "resolution" (a noun referring to the solution itself or a formal expression of opinion) is more appropriate. For instance, say "The resolution passed" instead of "They resolved the resolution."

Linguistic Context

"Resolve" functions primarily as a verb, denoting the action of finding a solution to a problem, dispute, or uncertainty. Ludwig AI confirms its usage across diverse contexts, aligning with the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "resolve" is a versatile verb frequently used to describe the act of finding solutions, making decisions, or breaking down complex issues. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, from formal business settings to news reports. While synonyms like ""solve"" or "settle" can often be used interchangeably, understanding the nuances of each word will enhance the precision of your writing. Pay attention to the common error of confusing "resolve" with "resolution", and you'll be well-equipped to use this word effectively. Its presence across diverse authoritative sources reinforces its importance in clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solve

Direct synonym focusing on finding a solution.

settle

Emphasizes reaching an agreement or conclusion.

decide

Highlights making a firm choice or determination.

determine

Focuses on establishing something definitively.

adjudicate

Implies a formal or legal judgment.

work out

Informal way to describe finding a solution to a problem.

sort out

Suggests resolving a confusing or complicated situation.

iron out

Focuses on eliminating small differences or problems.

figure out

Informal way to describe finding a solution to a complex problem.

clear up

Emphasizes removing confusion or misunderstanding.

FAQs

How to use "resolve" in a sentence?

The word "resolve" can be used to indicate solving a problem or making a firm decision. For example, "We need to "solve" the budget issues" or "I "decided" to exercise more often".

What can I say instead of "resolve"?

You can use alternatives like ""solve"", "settle", or "decide" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "resolve" or "resolution"?

"Resolve" is a verb, meaning to find a solution or make a decision, while "resolution" is a noun, referring to the solution or a formal decision. Choose the word that fits the grammatical structure of your sentence.

What's the difference between "resolve" and "address"?

"Resolve" implies finding a conclusive solution to a problem. "Address" means to give attention to or deal with a matter, but not necessarily solve it completely.