settles the issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "settles the issue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that a particular action or decision resolves a dispute or uncertainty. Example: "The new evidence presented in court finally settles the issue of the defendant's guilt."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

That by no means settles the issue.

The New York Times

If you think it settles the issue; it doesn't.

The Times

This November's election could validate it in a way that practically settles the issue among Democrats.

The Washington Post

But Japan never honored the rights, and the new accord settles the issue.

The New York Times

"I think this settles the issue," Mr. Waxman said after the vote.

The New York Times

I don't understand why our trade ambassador is inserting this prohibition into trade agreements before Congress settles the issue".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

This settled the issue.

The New York Times - Arts

Color experts finally settle the issue.

The New York Times

A fire settled the issue.

The New York Times - Books

But that has not settled the issue.

The New York Times

After lunch Verity settled the issue.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the context clearly defines what 'the issue' refers to, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "settles the issue" when only a partial resolution has been achieved. If aspects of the problem remain, a more nuanced phrase such as "partially addresses the issue" is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "settles the issue" functions as a declarative statement, indicating that a particular matter has been definitively resolved. This is supported by Ludwig AI's analysis of the phrase in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "settles the issue" is a clear and direct way to indicate that a matter has been resolved. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples from reputable sources, primarily in news, scientific and academic contexts. When using the phrase, ensure that the context provides clarity about what 'the issue' refers to, and avoid using it if the resolution is only partial. Consider alternatives such as "resolves the matter" or "decides the question" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolves the matter

Replaces 'issue' with 'matter', offering a slightly more formal tone.

decides the question

Substitutes 'settles' with 'decides' and 'issue' with 'question', changing the verb and noun while maintaining similar meaning.

determines the outcome

Focuses on the result or consequence, using 'determines' instead of 'settles'.

puts the matter to rest

Emphasizes the finality of the resolution, using a more idiomatic expression.

resolves the conflict

Highlights the resolution of a dispute or disagreement.

brings closure to the debate

Indicates the end of a discussion or argument, emphasizing the sense of finality.

concludes the argument

Similar to 'brings closure to the debate', but more directly references an argument.

provides a resolution

Focuses on the act of providing a solution or answer.

establishes a decision

Highlights the creation of a firm conclusion or judgment.

finalizes the agreement

Emphasizes the completion of an understanding or contract.

FAQs

What does "settles the issue" mean?

The phrase "settles the issue" means that a decision, action, or piece of evidence resolves a debate, problem, or uncertainty, bringing it to a conclusion.

How can I use "settles the issue" in a sentence?

You can use "settles the issue" to indicate that a particular point is no longer up for debate because it has been definitively decided or proven. For example, "The new evidence presented in court finally "settles the issue" of the defendant's guilt."

What are some alternatives to "settles the issue"?

Alternatives to "settles the issue" include "resolves the matter", "decides the question", or "determines the outcome". The best alternative depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "settles the issue"?

It is appropriate to use "settles the issue" when a decision or action definitively resolves a debate or uncertainty. However, avoid using it when the resolution is only partial or temporary; instead, use phrases like "partially addresses the issue".