that settles it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'that settles it' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express a definite conclusion or resolution. For example: "We decided to take a vacation next month—that settles it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

WELL, that settles it.

The New York Times - Arts

"Still," he says, as if that settles it.

The New Yorker

If Cameron wins re-election, that settles it for another five years.

Independent

He thinks that if he vouches incessantly for the "good heart" of a John Ashcroft, that settles it.

The New York Times

Paul's going DVD-drive-less too?! Well that settles it…" And so it did.

TechCrunch

"Then, that settles it.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

You triumphed, and for the moment, that settled it.

The Guardian - Opinion

A few months later, during one of his habitual runs, he lay down in a meadow and conceived a sort of abstract machine that settled it in an unexpected way.

The New Yorker

And it was always going to be a scrappy goal that settled it.

BBC

Both sides committed errors as the tension rose but Brough stayed cool to clip over a drop-goal that settled it.

BBC

The goal that settled it - Miller's first for the club - was crisply taken by the well-travelled striker, as he converted Josh Magennis's square ball with three minutes remaining.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that settles it" to clearly indicate the end of a discussion or decision-making process. This phrase works best when you want to convey a sense of finality and prevent further debate.

Common error

While "that settles it" is effective for conveying finality, overuse can sound dismissive or authoritarian. Use it judiciously to avoid alienating others or stifling constructive dialogue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that settles it" functions as an idiomatic expression used to signify the end of a discussion, argument, or decision-making process. It's a declarative statement indicating finality. Ludwig examples show its wide use in conversational contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Academia

4%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that settles it" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate finality and closure. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to assert a decision and discourage further debate. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, this expression should be used judiciously to avoid sounding dismissive. While effective for ending discussions, remember to consider the audience and context to ensure it doesn't stifle constructive dialogue. Alternatives like "that's the final word" or "it's decided then" can provide similar meaning with slightly varied tones.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that's decided then

Confirms that a decision has been made and is now in effect, often used in conversational settings.

that's the final word

Highlights the decisiveness of a statement, leaving no room for further debate.

the decision is made

Highlights that a decision has been reached and is unlikely to be changed.

that concludes the matter

Emphasizes the completion or termination of a discussion or issue, implying a formal decision.

the matter is closed

Similar to "that concludes the matter", but conveys more finality and lack of willingness to reopen.

that's the end of the story

Indicates that an issue is resolved and no further action or discussion is needed.

we have a resolution

Formal way of saying that a problem is settled and a solution has been found.

it's all wrapped up

Suggests a sense of completeness and resolution, often used when finalizing a plan or agreement.

it's been determined

A slightly more formal expression indicating a decision has been officially reached.

case closed

An informal and decisive way to announce that a matter is definitively resolved, often used humorously.

FAQs

How can I use "that settles it" in a sentence?

You can use "that settles it" to indicate a final decision or conclusion. For example, "We've considered all options, that settles it—we're going with plan A."

What does "that settles it" imply?

The phrase "that settles it" implies that a matter has been definitively decided and there is no need for further discussion or debate.

Are there situations where using "that settles it" might be inappropriate?

Yes, using "that settles it" can be inappropriate if it shuts down important discussions or disregards others' opinions. It's best used when a decision truly needs to be final and all relevant viewpoints have been considered.

What are some alternatives to using "that settles it"?

Alternatives include phrases like "that's the final word", "it's decided then", or "the matter is closed", depending on the desired tone and context.