we can settle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "We can settle" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to indicate that a particular situation or issue can be resolved or dealt with. For example, "We can settle this issue by agreeing on a compromise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We can settle scores forever.

The New York Times

If we can settle the nomenclature issue, who knows what we can settle next?

The New York Times - Magazine

"I'm sure that we can settle this eventually".

The New Yorker

"I don't think we can settle this dispute".

The New York Times

"We'd like to see if we can settle it".

The New York Times

Who decides how we can settle debts and how much is cryptocurrency worth?

University of California, Berkeley

We can settle this amicably and all be on our way".

The New York Times

"We are anticipating this hearing so that we can settle this matter in a timely fashion".

The New York Times

He says he thinks we can settle it right here in the company. . . .

The New Yorker

We can settle for the rest of the ceremony, including Obama's address and Joseph Lowery's benediction.

The New Yorker

Now everything is spoiled, and we can settle in and enjoy -- treat the story as one big, satisfying narrative.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can settle" when you want to express the possibility or intention of resolving a disagreement, finalizing an agreement, or coming to a conclusion. It implies a collaborative effort or a shared ability to bring something to a close.

Common error

While "we can settle" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic contexts. Consider stronger, more precise verbs like "resolve", "determine", or "conclude" to enhance the sophistication and impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can settle" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing the possibility or intention to resolve a situation. This expression indicates a collaborative capacity to bring about a resolution. Ludwig AI validates this through examples showcasing its use in various contexts, such as resolving disputes or finalizing agreements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

26%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we can settle" is a versatile and commonly used expression that conveys the possibility or intention to resolve a situation collaboratively. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted across various contexts. While particularly prevalent in news and media, it also appears in academic and scientific writing. For more formal settings, consider alternatives like "resolve" or "conclude". By understanding its nuances and appropriate contexts, you can effectively use "we can settle" to communicate potential solutions and facilitate agreements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we can resolve

A more direct synonym "resolve" replacing "settle", maintaining the meaning with slightly increased formality.

we are able to resolve

Replaces "settle" with a more formal synonym "resolve" and uses "are able" instead of "can" emphasizing ability.

we can come to terms

Implies negotiation and mutual agreement, often in a business or legal context.

we can conclude

Shifts focus to reaching a conclusion rather than necessarily resolving a dispute or issue.

we can find a solution

Focuses on discovering a solution, rather than necessarily settling a dispute.

we can decide

Focuses on making a decision, which may or may not fully resolve the underlying issue.

we can reconcile

Suggests restoring harmony or agreement, particularly after a disagreement.

we can fix

Emphasizes repairing or correcting something, implying a problem exists.

we can wrap up

Informal and indicates finishing or completing something, such as a discussion or project.

we can put an end to

Highlights bringing something to a definitive stop, often used for negative situations.

FAQs

How can I use "we can settle" in a sentence?

The phrase "we can settle" is used to express the possibility of resolving something, such as a dispute, debt, or issue. For example, "We can settle this amicably" or "We can settle the bill later".

What is a more formal alternative to "we can settle"?

In more formal contexts, you can use phrases like "we can resolve", "we can determine", or "we can conclude" depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "we can settle" in professional communication?

While generally acceptable, consider your audience and the formality of the situation. In some cases, a more direct or specific verb might be preferable. For example, instead of "we can settle the contract", you might say "we can finalize the contract".

What's the difference between "we can settle" and "we will settle"?

"We can settle" suggests the possibility or ability to resolve something, while "we will settle" implies a firm commitment or intention to do so. The choice depends on whether you're expressing a potential outcome or a definite action.