resolves to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "resolves to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a conclusion or outcome that has been reached after consideration or deliberation. Example: "After much discussion, the committee resolves to implement the new policy starting next month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The G-20 resolves to do things.

The New Yorker

Sebastian resolves to confront Eliade.

The New York Times

He resolves to commit suicide.

The New York Times - Books

Mary, however, resolves to press on.

The New York Times

Moss resolves to get better at chess.

The Guardian - Books

Space being at a premium, he resolves to collect misspellings.

The New Yorker

Flora resolves to deliver the letter to Hugo.

The New Yorker

So she resolves to take herself in hand.

The New York Times - Books

Death resolves to visit him in his modest apartment.

The New York Times - Books

Bernie resolves to increase his daughters' allowance – just because.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

For the hundredth time she resolves to repaper the room.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "resolves to" when you want to convey a sense of determination or a firm decision. It adds a degree of formality compared to simpler alternatives like "decides to".

Common error

Avoid using the past tense of 'resolve' when describing a current or future decision. Instead of "He resolved to went", use "He resolves to go".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "resolves to" functions as a verb phrase indicating a firm decision or determination to take a specific action. It is commonly used to express the outcome of a deliberate thought process, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "resolves to" is a versatile verb phrase used to express a firm decision or determination to undertake a specific action. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across a spectrum of contexts, including news media and encyclopedias. While relatively neutral, its usage leans towards the formal, conveying a sense of intentionality and commitment. When using this phrase, ensure the verb that follows is in its base form and that the tense accurately reflects the timing of the decision. Alternatives such as "decides to" or "intends to" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decides to

A more straightforward and common way to express making a decision.

is resolved to

Passive form emphasizing the state of being determined.

determines to

Emphasizes a firm and conclusive decision.

intends to

Highlights the plan or purpose behind the action.

undertakes to

Suggests a commitment to begin or pursue a particular action or task.

commits to

Implies a strong obligation or pledge.

plans to

Focuses on the preparatory aspect of having a strategy.

vows to

Suggests a solemn promise or declaration.

makes up one's mind to

An idiomatic expression indicating a firm decision after some deliberation.

takes it upon oneself to

Implies accepting responsibility or initiative for a particular task.

FAQs

How can I use "resolves to" in a sentence?

Use "resolves to" to indicate a firm decision or determination to do something. For example: "After careful consideration, she "resolves to" accept the job offer".

What's a more formal alternative to "resolves to"?

A more formal alternative to "resolves to" is "determines to". This conveys a stronger sense of decisiveness and commitment.

What can I say instead of "resolves to" in a more casual context?

In a more casual context, you can use alternatives like "decides to" or "plans to", depending on the intended meaning.

Is there a difference between "resolves to" and "is resolved to"?

"Resolves to" indicates the act of making a decision, while "is resolved to" is a passive construction indicating the state of being determined or decided. For example, "He resolves to take action" versus "He is resolved to take action".