to settle a dispute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to settle a dispute" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the process of resolving a disagreement or conflict between parties. Example: "The two companies decided to settle a dispute through mediation rather than going to court."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It turned out to be a meeting to settle a dispute over a chromite mine.

The Economist

A year earlier, Krispy Kreme had costs of $9.1 million to settle a dispute with franchisees.

The New York Times

At one point he proposes to settle a dispute with the California attorney general schoolyard style.

The New York Times - Books

The war metaphor suggests opposing sides, both attempting to settle a dispute through violence.

The New York Times

Every now and then gangsters would file into a restaurant and stab a patron to settle a dispute.

The Economist

In 1922 he was appointed to a government commission to settle a dispute over the boundary between Colombia and Venezuela.

Encyclopedia Britannica

E-mail still cannot be used to enter a plea, to settle a dispute or to file court papers.

The New York Times

Moreover, refusal to settle a dispute in a sharia court could lead to to threats, intimidation or isolation.

The Guardian

In early 1546, he had to go to the town of his birth, Eisleben, to settle a dispute.

The New Yorker

She said she was trying to settle a dispute between gay groups who opposed a provision in the law and religious groups who supported the act.

The New York Times

In one commercial featuring parents and their teenage daughter in a suburban kitchen, the mother asks the teenager to settle a dispute.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to settle a dispute", ensure the context clearly identifies the parties involved and the nature of the disagreement. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "to settle a dispute" in vague contexts. Always specify what dispute is being settled and between whom to maintain clarity and relevance. For example, avoid saying 'They met to settle a dispute' without specifying the dispute.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to settle a dispute" functions as an infinitive phrase, often used as an adverbial of purpose. As shown by Ludwig, it specifies the reason or intention behind an action, clarifying the aim of a meeting, negotiation, or legal proceeding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Science

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to settle a dispute" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe the act of resolving a conflict or disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, it's essential to provide specific context to maintain clarity. Alternatives include "to resolve a conflict" or "to mediate a disagreement", depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Understanding its function and usage patterns ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to resolve a conflict

Focuses on the act of finding a solution, emphasizing conflict resolution.

to mediate a disagreement

Highlights the process of using a neutral third party for resolution.

to negotiate a settlement

Stresses the bargaining aspect of reaching an agreement.

to reconcile differences

Emphasizes restoring harmony and agreement after a disagreement.

to arbitrate a claim

Implies a formal process of dispute resolution with a binding decision.

to address a grievance

Focuses on the act of dealing with a complaint or source of discontent.

to adjudicate a matter

Suggests a formal judgment or ruling on an issue.

to iron out differences

Emphasizes smoothing away minor disagreements.

to find common ground

Highlights the process of discovering shared interests or agreements.

to defuse a conflict

Focuses on reducing the intensity of a conflict to allow for resolution.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "to settle a dispute"?

You can use alternatives like "to resolve a conflict", "to mediate a disagreement", or "to negotiate a settlement" depending on the specific context.

Is "to settle a dispute" formal or informal?

The phrase "to settle a dispute" is generally considered neutral and appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. However, the surrounding language and situation should guide your choice of vocabulary.

What is the difference between "to settle a dispute" and "to solve a dispute"?

While both phrases imply resolving a problem, "to settle a dispute" often suggests reaching an agreement or compromise, whereas "to solve a dispute" /s/to+solve+a+dispute suggests finding a definitive solution that eliminates the problem entirely.

Can "to settle a dispute" be used in legal contexts?

Yes, "to settle a dispute" is commonly used in legal contexts, particularly when discussing mediation, arbitration, or out-of-court settlements. It implies a formal or legally binding resolution.