to reconcile the differences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to reconcile the differences" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in contexts where you want to express the idea of resolving conflicts or discrepancies between two or more parties or ideas. Example: "The committee met to reconcile the differences between the two proposals." Alternative expressions include "to resolve the differences" and "to bridge the gaps."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

After months of delay, a conference committee will meet later this month to reconcile the differences.

The New York Times

While the lawyers suggested some opposing interpretations of the impeachment process, committee members said they did not feel pressed to reconcile the differences.

The New York Times

Whoever the new secretary general is, he (so far, no woman has been mentioned) will have to reconcile the differences within the alliance.

The New York Times

Here again, the stimulus process is illustrative, specifically at the point when negotiators for the two chambers met to reconcile the differences in their bills.

The New York Times - Magazine

Staff members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees have been trying to reconcile the differences between their versions of the bill for two weeks.

The New York Times

And it reaches back further, trying to reconcile the differences that divided modernist architects from their Art Deco counterparts in the 30's.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

It's only hard to reconcile the difference between the two views if you accept that Spurr was, as he asserts, playing a "whimsical linguistic game".

The Guardian - Opinion

It is not clear how to reconcile the difference in the accounts of how many detainees are participating in the hunger strike.

The New York Times

The net result was the prospect that the Senate and the House will have passed different temporary spending bills and that the Senate will have to return later this week to reconcile the difference.

The New York Times

The brain gets disoriented trying to reconcile the difference between the distance to the image and the foreshortened viewing angle.

Forbes

Congressional aides say they are close to reconciling the differences, and there are sufficient votes in both the House and the Senate to pass the overall trade bill.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to reconcile the differences" in formal writing, ensure that the context clearly outlines what differences are being addressed and the method or strategy used to reconcile them. Providing specific examples or a clear process enhances the impact of the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "to reconcile the differences" without specifying what those differences are. For instance, instead of saying "The committee worked to reconcile the differences", specify "The committee worked to reconcile the differences in budget allocations between departments."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to reconcile the differences" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It describes the intention behind an action, indicating the goal is to resolve discrepancies. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to reconcile the differences" is a grammatically correct and frequently used infinitive phrase that expresses the intent to resolve discrepancies or disagreements. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and common usage across diverse fields such as News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. When employing this phrase, it's best practice to clearly define the differences being addressed to enhance clarity and impact. While alternatives like "resolve the discrepancies" and "bridge the divide" exist, "to reconcile the differences" emphasizes a deeper understanding and harmonizing of perspectives, making it a valuable tool for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolve the discrepancies

Focuses on resolving minor inconsistencies or variations, often in data or accounts.

bridge the divide

Implies overcoming a significant separation or disagreement between parties or ideas.

iron out the differences

Suggests a process of smoothing out minor disagreements through discussion and compromise.

settle the dispute

Focuses on resolving a formal disagreement or conflict, often with legal or official implications.

harmonize the views

Emphasizes creating agreement or consistency among different perspectives or opinions.

bring into accord

Highlights the act of aligning different elements or parties into a state of agreement.

find common ground

Suggests discovering shared beliefs, interests, or goals to facilitate agreement.

reach a consensus

Focuses on achieving a collective agreement among all parties involved.

mend the breach

Implies repairing a rupture in a relationship or agreement, often after a conflict.

adjust conflicting positions

Highlights making alterations to opposing viewpoints to achieve a more harmonious outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "to reconcile the differences" in a sentence?

You can use "to reconcile the differences" to describe the act of resolving disagreements or inconsistencies between ideas, accounts, or parties. For example: "The negotiators met to reconcile the differences between the two proposals."

What phrases are similar to "to reconcile the differences"?

Similar phrases include "resolve the discrepancies", "bridge the divide", and "iron out the differences", each carrying a slightly different nuance.

Is it always necessary to specify what differences are when using "to reconcile the differences"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the differences provides clarity and strengthens the statement. It avoids vagueness and ensures the reader understands the context of the reconciliation.

What's the difference between "to reconcile the differences" and "resolve the differences"?

While both phrases involve addressing disagreements, "to reconcile the differences" often implies a deeper level of understanding and acceptance, whereas "resolve the differences" can simply mean finding a solution without necessarily harmonizing perspectives.