settle disputes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "settle disputes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where resolution or agreement is sought between conflicting parties or issues. Example: "The mediator's role is to help settle disputes between the two parties in a fair and impartial manner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

People resort to violence to settle disputes".

The New York Times

New customs emerge to settle disputes and enforce contracts.

The New York Times

The synod tried to settle disputes concerning Arminianism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That data will settle disputes over the BICEP2 findings.

Yale University

Under what conditions do autocracies peacefully settle disputes?

Harvard University

requires unhappy customers to settle disputes through arbitration, and b).

The New York Times

She also helped settle disputes among other royal relatives.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His books include Order without Law: How Neighbors Settle Disputes.

Princeton University

Some schools have counsellors to settle disputes between students.

The Guardian

Companies keep those recordings, often to settle disputes like this.

The New York Times

The Taliban settle disputes and deliver justice on the spot.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity and impact, specify how disputes are settled. For instance, "settle disputes through arbitration" or "settle disputes via mediation".

Common error

Avoid using "settle disputes" in overly casual or informal contexts. While grammatically correct, it may sound too formal. Instead, opt for more relaxed alternatives like "work things out" or "sort out differences" in everyday conversation or informal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "settle disputes" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating the action of resolving disagreements or conflicts. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts, from international relations to business and personal disagreements. The phrase implies bringing an end to a contentious issue through negotiation, arbitration, or other means.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

23%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "settle disputes" is a grammatically sound and widely used verb phrase indicating the resolution of conflicts or disagreements. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is appropriate for various contexts, ranging from formal legal settings to general discussions about conflict resolution. It is most frequently found in news and media, academic writing, and encyclopedias. While "settle disputes" is generally neutral to formal, writers should consider the specific context and audience when choosing between it and more informal alternatives like "work things out". When using this phrase, specifying how the disputes are settled (e.g., through arbitration or mediation) can enhance clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolve conflicts

Focuses on a more general term for disagreements or struggles.

mediate disagreements

Emphasizes the role of a neutral third party in facilitating a resolution.

adjudicate claims

Highlights a formal, legal process of resolving disputes.

arbitrate differences

Suggests a binding resolution through an arbitrator.

iron out differences

Implies a collaborative effort to eliminate discrepancies and reach an agreement.

bring to terms

This implies convincing all parties involved to accept certain conditions.

find common ground

Focuses on discovering shared interests to overcome disputes.

reach an accord

Suggests a formal agreement or settlement after negotiation.

bring about a reconciliation

Focuses on restoring amicable relations after a conflict.

work out a compromise

Suggests mutual concessions to reach a mutually agreeable solution.

FAQs

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

You can use "settle disputes" to describe the act of resolving disagreements or conflicts, such as "The company uses arbitration to "settle disputes" with its customers" or "The United Nations aims to "settle disputes" between nations peacefully".

What are some alternatives to "settle disputes"?

Alternatives include "resolve conflicts", "mediate disagreements", "adjudicate claims", or "arbitrate differences", depending on the specific context and the nature of the resolution process.

Is it more formal to say "settle disputes" or "resolve conflicts"?

"Settle disputes" and "resolve conflicts" are quite similar in formality. However, "settle disputes" may imply a more formal or legal context, while "resolve conflicts" can be used more broadly. Consider the specific situation when choosing between them.

What's the difference between "settle disputes" and "address disagreements"?

"Settle disputes" suggests a conclusive resolution, whereas "address disagreements" implies dealing with disagreements without necessarily reaching a final settlement. "Address disagreements" may involve ongoing discussions or negotiations, while "settle disputes" indicates a more definitive outcome.