settle a problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"settle a problem" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to resolve or find a solution to a problem. You can use this phrase in any situation where there is a problem to be solved or a conflict to be resolved. Here is an example sentence: "After much discussion and negotiation, the two sides were finally able to settle the problem and come to a mutually beneficial agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

When he told his chief of cabinet, Maja Tasic, who came with him from his previous life, to phone an American official to settle a problem about a United Nations resolution about Bosnia, his deputies were shocked, he said.

The New York Times

The second type is the coupling of MD and LB in tandem to settle a problem, rather than simultaneous coupling (Marsh et al. 2010; Choi et al. 2014; Liu et al. 2015a, b; Pereira et al. 2016).

International Journal of Coal Science & Technology

A survey of 51,000 Africans in 34 countries found that nearly 1 in 3 had paid a bribe within the previous year to obtain a government document, get medical care or settle a problem with police, the Afrobarometer polling group reported Wednesday.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

This settles a problem that was open for quite some time.

Computers & Mathematics with Applications

People who are serious about settling a problem with their neighbors before they are compelled to sue or sell can get help from a professional mediator.

Forbes

We present in some detail applications to the case where ϑ is a ground state of a Hamiltonian in quantum field theory settling a problem which has been open for some time.

Journal of Functional Analysis

The groups of quotients of the multiplicative semigroups of power series rings with topological quadratic relations of the type k ⟨ ⟨ x, y, z, t | x y = z t ⟩ ⟩ embeddable (without the zero element) into groups but in general not embeddable into division algebras (settling a problem of Malcev).

Bulletin of Mathematical Sciences

If WIMPs are real, they might settle a long-standing problem.

Science Magazine

Tells how Martin went home and managed to settle a number family problems.

The New Yorker

"This will settle a lot of problems," said Richard Doherty, president of Envisioneering, a technology research and consulting company based in Seaford, N.Y.

The New York Times

When settling a research problem, this may lead to diverging opinions within the research community.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "settle a problem", consider the context. It's best suited for situations where negotiation or compromise is involved, rather than simply solving a technical issue.

Common error

Avoid using "settle a problem" in highly technical or scientific contexts where a more precise verb like "solve", "resolve", or "determine" might be more appropriate. For instance, in a math paper, prefer 'solve the equation' over 'settle the equation'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "settle a problem" functions as a verb phrase, where 'settle' is the verb and 'a problem' is the object. It describes the action of resolving or coming to an agreement on a contentious issue. Ludwig provides examples showing it in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "settle a problem" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon expression used to describe the resolution of a dispute or difficulty, often implying negotiation or compromise. Ludwig provides examples where the phrase appears in news, scientific and general contexts. When writing, remember that "settle a problem" is most appropriate when addressing conflicts that require mutual agreement rather than technical solutions. Consider alternatives like "resolve an issue" or "solve a problem" depending on the context. Use the phrase judiciously to ensure clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolve an issue

This alternative emphasizes the act of finding a solution to a specific issue.

fix a difficulty

This alternative highlights the act of repairing or correcting a problem.

remedy a situation

This alternative suggests correcting or improving an undesirable situation.

rectify a matter

This alternative focuses on correcting something that is wrong or unjust.

sort out a complication

This alternative suggests organizing or clarifying a complex problem.

iron out a wrinkle

This alternative implies smoothing out a minor difficulty or obstacle.

straighten out a mess

This alternative emphasizes the act of organizing or resolving a chaotic situation.

clear up a misunderstanding

This alternative focuses on resolving a confusion or disagreement.

ease a tension

This alternative highlights reducing stress or strain caused by a problem.

defuse a crisis

This alternative suggests neutralizing a dangerous or unstable situation.

FAQs

What does "settle a problem" mean?

The phrase "settle a problem" means to resolve a dispute or difficulty, often through negotiation or compromise. It implies finding a solution that is acceptable to all parties involved.

How can I use "settle a problem" in a sentence?

You can use "settle a problem" in a sentence like this: "After a long discussion, the parties were able to "settle a problem" related to the contract."

What are some alternatives to "settle a problem"?

Some alternatives to "settle a problem" include "resolve an issue", "fix a difficulty", or "remedy a situation". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "solve a problem" or "settle a problem"?

While both "solve a problem" and "settle a problem" refer to addressing an issue, "solve" implies finding a definitive answer or solution, whereas "settle" suggests reaching an agreement or compromise. Use "solve a problem" when there's a clear-cut answer, and "settle a problem" when negotiation is involved.