seek a compromise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seek a compromise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of finding a middle ground or agreement between differing parties or opinions. Example: "In order to resolve the conflict, both sides must be willing to seek a compromise that satisfies everyone involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Some protagonists may come to their senses and seek a compromise.

The Economist

Mr Bush held talks at the White House with both parties to seek a compromise.

The Economist

But it seems more likely that Clegg will try to seek a compromise.

The New Yorker

Mr. Putin seems ready to seek a compromise if Mr. Bush acts responsibly.

The New York Times

Today, House Republican leaders and committee chairmen met repeatedly in private to seek a compromise.

The New York Times

The law is flexible enough for the E.U. to seek a compromise exempting all incoming flights from the rules.

The New York Times

Just 4,000 said he should stay in office, and 1,000 said he should seek a compromise.

The New York Times

He urged the combatants to lay down their weapons and seek a compromise over the contentious rent issue.

The New York Times

The European Central Bank might seek a compromise and take less controversial steps to show it is not watching idly as the banking crisis becomes more acute.

The New York Times

Professor Crawford, who is critical of the proposal, said the F.C.C.'s lack of action on access rules pushed Google to seek a compromise.

The New York Times - Tech

The Taliban vow to quash what they call an American plot, but they may quietly seek a compromise, perhaps by loosening their edicts or freeing Mullah Ismail.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seek a compromise" when addressing situations where there are conflicting interests, indicating an attempt to find a mutually acceptable solution, rather than imposing a unilateral decision.

Common error

Avoid using "seek a compromise" with the expectation that it will fully satisfy everyone involved. A true compromise often means that each party gets some, but not all, of what they want. Manage expectations by clarifying that the goal is a mutually acceptable, not necessarily ideal, outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seek a compromise" functions as a verb phrase indicating an action aimed at resolution. It's used when different parties need to find a mutually acceptable agreement, as shown in Ludwig's examples from reputable news sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seek a compromise" is a commonly used phrase that means to attempt to find a mutually acceptable agreement between parties with differing interests. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and finds frequent usage in news and media. While the phrase is versatile, it's crucial to use it when both parties are genuinely willing to concede. Alternatives such as "pursue a middle ground" or "attempt to reach an agreement" can be used for variety. Remember that compromise doesn't always mean complete satisfaction but rather a resolution that is acceptable to everyone involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pursue a middle ground

Replaces "compromise" with "middle ground", emphasizing the area of agreement rather than the act of concession.

attempt to reach an agreement

Focuses on the overall goal of achieving agreement, rather than specifically seeking a compromise.

endeavor to find common ground

Highlights the effort to discover shared interests or beliefs as a basis for agreement.

work toward a resolution

Shifts the focus to the outcome of resolving a conflict or disagreement.

negotiate a settlement

Implies a more formal process of discussion and bargaining to reach a mutually acceptable outcome.

mediate a solution

Suggests the involvement of a neutral third party to facilitate the compromise.

find a consensus

Emphasizes a general agreement among all parties involved.

aim for reconciliation

Focuses on restoring harmonious relationships after a conflict.

strive for mutual understanding

Highlights the importance of each party understanding the other's perspective before reaching a compromise.

look for a way to meet halfway

An informal idiom that suggests each party is willing to concede some ground.

FAQs

How can I use "seek a compromise" in a sentence?

You can use "seek a compromise" when you want to express the action of trying to find an agreement. For example: "Both parties must "seek a compromise" to end the dispute."

What are some alternatives to "seek a compromise"?

Alternatives include phrases like "pursue a middle ground", "attempt to reach an agreement", or "endeavor to find common ground", depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to "seek a compromise" in a negotiation?

While not always necessary, "seeking a compromise" is often crucial for achieving mutually beneficial outcomes. However, in situations where fundamental principles are at stake, compromise might not be appropriate.

What is the difference between "seek a compromise" and "capitulate"?

"Seek a compromise" implies a mutual agreement reached through negotiation, while "capitulate" suggests one party surrenders completely to the demands of the other.