settle accounts

USAGE SUMMARY

'settle accounts' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used in contexts where there is an issue of debt or payment to be resolved. For example, "The company is having difficulty settling its accounts with its contractor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Now it is time to settle accounts".

The New York Times

It is my attempt to settle accounts".

The Guardian

The hour would come to settle accounts, to put the cards on the table.

Cornell University

Victims of human rights abuses wanted to settle accounts with their tormentors.

The New Yorker

Sargon was now free to settle accounts with Marduk-apal-iddina of Babylonia.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Last week, Kim said, "The time has come to settle accounts with the U.S. imperialists".

The New Yorker

By 1895 he was determined to settle accounts with the last obstacle, President Kruger.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So banks borrow, overnight, from each other, to settle accounts and save themselves some money.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Bouley said he was mostly up to date and was trying to settle accounts.

The New York Times

He felt that it was important to settle accounts with those he viewed as "pseudo-reformers".

The New Yorker

For those who cannot afford to settle accounts at this time, the pre-holiday season may be spent evading creditors.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "settle accounts" when you want to convey the idea of resolving outstanding obligations, whether financial, personal, or historical.

Common error

Avoid using "settle accounts" solely for simple transactions; it often carries a connotation of resolving something more significant than a routine payment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "settle accounts" typically functions as a verb phrase. Ludwig AI indicates it's a correct and usable phrase used in contexts related to resolving debts or payments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "settle accounts" is a versatile expression used to describe the resolution of outstanding obligations. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and frequently used. Its meaning spans from financial reconciliation to resolving personal conflicts or historical injustices. The phrase's formality varies depending on the context, ranging from neutral in news reports to formal in academic discussions. While predominantly found in News & Media and Academic sources, its application extends across various domains. Understanding the nuances of "settle accounts" allows for its precise and effective use in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pay debts

Specifically addresses the financial aspect of resolving outstanding payments.

square things up

Suggests making amends or resolving outstanding issues, both tangible and intangible.

discharge obligations

Specifically addresses fulfilling duties or commitments, including financial ones.

resolve differences

Focuses on resolving disagreements or conflicts, rather than specifically financial or retaliatory actions.

make reparations

Highlights the act of making amends for a wrong or injury.

balance the books

Highlights the act of ensuring financial records are accurate and reconciled.

clear the slate

Suggests forgiving past offenses or starting anew.

get even

Implies retaliation or revenge for perceived wrongs.

bring closure

Focuses on achieving a sense of finality or resolution to a situation.

close the books

Implies ending a process, or completing something.

FAQs

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

You can use "settle accounts" to describe resolving financial debts, such as "The company needed to "settle accounts" with its suppliers before the end of the year". It can also refer to resolving conflicts or seeking revenge, like "He returned to "settle accounts" with those who had wronged him".

What does "settle accounts" mean in a financial context?

In a financial context, "settle accounts" means to pay off debts, reconcile financial records, or resolve outstanding financial obligations. It implies bringing financial matters to a close.

What are some alternative phrases for "settle accounts" when referring to revenge?

When "settle accounts" refers to revenge, you can use phrases like "get even", "take revenge", or "avenge oneself". These alternatives emphasize the retaliatory aspect of the action.

Is it appropriate to use "settle accounts" in formal business communication?

Yes, "settle accounts" is appropriate in formal business communication when discussing financial resolutions or the clearing of debts. However, avoid using it in contexts where it implies revenge or personal vendettas, as this can be perceived as unprofessional.