to resolve a matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to resolve a matter" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the act of finding a solution or settling an issue or dispute. Example: "The committee met to resolve a matter that had been causing tension among the members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

They will make no effort to resolve an issue, no matter how much they yammer on about it.

WikiHow

As we have said previously, Saxon is always willing to make reasonable accommodations to amicably resolve a matter, especially for our service men and women".

The New York Times

If you go over to someone's house, tell your friend what your problem is, he/she might be able to help resolve a matter.

WikiHow

A part of me can't believe that it's real – how many couples would actually turn to the web to resolve a private matter?

TechCrunch

And the sums involved in Bank of America's settlement dwarf the $13bn paid by another bank, JP Morgan to resolve a similar matter.

BBC

Throughout the months that followed, the court would be called on to resolve a host of other controversial matters while the integrity of a swing justice was under constant challenge.

Huffington Post

Executives from McDonald's and officials from the Swiss state secretariat for economic affairs in Bern are scheduled to meet next week to resolve the matter, a spokeswoman for the secretariat said.

The New York Times

It also throws into question the strategy of trying to use the bankruptcy court to address this problem rather than keeping the pressure on Congress to resolve the matter, a remedy more likely now that the balance of power there has shifted.

Forbes

In a letter sent to the judge in the case in December, a lawyer representing Sterling said that the parties were engaged in preliminary discussions in an effort to resolve the matter, and proposed that a March date be set for a progress report.

The New York Times - Sports

A Morgan Stanley spokeswoman said the bank "is pleased to resolve this matter in a way that will help many Massachusetts homeowners stay in their homes".

The New York Times

At a hearing yesterday, Judge Werlein urged both sides to resolve the matter without a trial and the defense said it was willing to pursue talks with the government.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use stronger verbs than "resolve" to add impact when appropriate. Verbs like "settle", "rectify", or "mediate" can convey more specific nuances.

Common error

Avoid phrasing like "the matter needs to be resolved". Instead, use active voice for stronger, more direct writing: "We need "to resolve a matter"".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to resolve a matter" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It indicates the intention or goal behind an action, such as a meeting, discussion, or investigation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable grammar.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to resolve a matter" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate the intention of settling or finding a solution to an issue. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly employed in various contexts, particularly in news and media, reflecting its broad applicability. While generally neutral in tone, writers should consider the specific context and use more descriptive verbs when a stronger impact is desired. Avoiding passive voice and ensuring clarity regarding the "matter" itself will enhance the effectiveness of this phrase. Remember that while "to resolve a matter" implies finding a final solution, "to handle a matter" simply means dealing with the issue, which is not necessarily a solution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to settle a dispute

This alternative focuses on resolving a disagreement or conflict.

to address an issue

This alternative emphasizes the act of dealing with a problem or concern.

to rectify a situation

This alternative suggests correcting or improving an undesirable situation.

to fix a problem

This alternative is a more informal way to describe solving a problem.

to sort out a difficulty

This alternative implies organizing or resolving a challenging situation.

to find a solution

This alternative focuses on the outcome of resolving the matter.

to come to a resolution

This alternative describes the process of reaching a decision or agreement.

to reconcile differences

This alternative specifically relates to resolving disagreements between parties.

to mediate a conflict

This alternative suggests using a third party to help resolve a dispute.

to set things right

This alternative is an informal way of expressing the correction of a wrong or injustice.

FAQs

How can I use "to resolve a matter" in a sentence?

You can use "to resolve a matter" in a sentence to indicate the act of finding a solution or settling an issue. For example, "The committee convened "to resolve a matter" of funding."

What are some alternatives to "to resolve a matter"?

Some alternatives include "to settle a dispute", "to address an issue", or "to rectify a situation", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "to resolve a matter" or "to solve a matter"?

"To resolve a matter" is generally used for situations involving disputes or complex issues requiring settlement, while "to solve a matter" might be more appropriate for straightforward problems with clear solutions. The choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "to resolve a matter" and "to handle a matter"?

"To resolve a matter" implies finding a final solution or settlement, whereas "to handle a matter" suggests managing or dealing with something, which may not necessarily lead to a resolution.