to settle this question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to settle this question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the resolution or clarification of a specific issue or inquiry. Example: "In order to settle this question, we need to gather more evidence and analyze the data thoroughly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

It is time for us to settle this question about Britain and Europe.

The New York Times

Australia, in particular, has been trying, and failing, to settle this question for many years.

The Guardian - Opinion

The best way to settle this question of external validity, of course, is to replicate this experiment in more colleges.

Harvard University

Some legal scholars have said the state's supreme court might be called on again to settle this question.

The Guardian

James Ziglar, the United States commissioner of immigration, said he had not decided how to settle this question.

The New York Times

But people worried about their health needn't wait for scientists to settle this question before deciding that it might be wise to eat more plants and less meat.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

He suggested that more observational research about what gets triggered culturally versus situationally or individually would be a great place to start in an effort to help settle this question.

Harvard University

It is time to settle this European question in British politics".

The New York Times

However, no data on the internal stratification of the entire bodies are so far available to settle this genetic question.

Bulletin of Volcanology

However, the number of patients and the follow-up period were still not extensive enough to settle this important question conclusively.

BMC Cancer

103 Although we saw no increase in mortality in patients with a clinical diagnosis of heart failure and concomitant atrial fibrillation, further randomised data are awaited in patients with atrial fibrillation to settle this important clinical question.

British Medical Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Before using "to settle this question", consider whether a stronger verb like "resolve", "determine", or "clarify" might be more precise and impactful in your writing.

Common error

While acceptable, "to settle this question" can sometimes sound slightly informal. In very formal or academic writing, consider alternatives like "to resolve this issue definitively" or "to determine the answer conclusively" for a more elevated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to settle this question" functions as an infinitive phrase that introduces the purpose or aim of a subsequent action. It typically sets the stage for a discussion, experiment, or analysis intended to resolve a specific inquiry. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to settle this question" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce an intention to resolve an issue. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase as correct and usable. While its frequency is uncommon, it is suitable in various contexts. It is most frequently found in news media, scientific publications, and academic writing. While generally neutral, consider using more formal alternatives in certain academic or scientific context. Ensure the context clearly indicates what specific question is being addressed. Use stronger verbs like "resolve", "determine", or "clarify" for potentially more impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to resolve this matter

Replaces "question" with "matter", focusing on the issue rather than the inquiry.

to clarify this point

Substitutes "settle" with "clarify" and "question" with "point", emphasizing understanding.

to determine the answer

Focuses on finding a specific answer rather than generally settling an issue.

to find a resolution

Emphasizes the act of resolving, suggesting a solution to a problem.

to clear up this confusion

Highlights the removal of confusion or misunderstanding.

to put this issue to rest

Implies bringing a final end to the consideration of the issue.

to get to the bottom of this

Suggests a more thorough investigation to uncover the truth.

to decide on this query

Focuses on making a decision regarding a specific inquiry.

to solve this problem

Frames the question as a problem that needs to be solved.

to address this concern

Highlights the act of dealing with or managing the question.

FAQs

How can I use "to settle this question" in a sentence?

You can use "to settle this question" to introduce an action aimed at resolving an uncertainty. For example, "To settle this question, further research is needed".

What can I say instead of "to settle this question"?

You can use alternatives like "to resolve this matter", "to clarify this point", or "to determine the answer" depending on the specific context.

Is "to settle this question" formal or informal?

"To settle this question" is generally considered neutral in tone. While suitable for most contexts, more formal alternatives may be preferred in academic or professional settings.

What's the difference between "to settle this question" and "to answer this question"?

"To answer this question" implies a direct response or solution. "To settle this question" suggests a more comprehensive resolution, potentially involving debate, evidence, or further investigation.