Resolve
/rɪˈzɒlv/
Definitions
4 meaningsTo make a firm decision about something.
/rɪˈzɒlv/
To decide firmly on a course of action.
I resolved to learn how to play the guitar.
💡 Simply: It's like making a super strong promise to yourself or others to do something, even if it's tough. Like, "I resolve to eat more vegetables this week!"
👶 For kids: To make up your mind to do something, like deciding to clean your room.
More Examples
After much deliberation, the committee resolved to postpone the decision.
She resolved her differences with her brother.
He resolved that he would finish the project by Friday.
How It's Used
"She resolved to study harder."
"The company resolved to cut costs."
To find a solution or an answer to a problem, argument, or difficulty.
/rɪˈzɒlv/
To settle or find a solution to a problem or dispute.
The team worked to resolve the technical issues.
💡 Simply: It's like figuring out a puzzle or a problem and making it go away. Like, "Let's resolve this argument by talking it out!"
👶 For kids: To fix a problem and make it better.
More Examples
We need to resolve this misunderstanding quickly.
The lawyers are trying to resolve the lawsuit.
The company is working to resolve the customer complaints.
How It's Used
"They resolved the conflict through mediation."
"The negotiators resolved the long-standing dispute."
Firmness of purpose; determination.
/rɪˈzɒlv/
Firm determination to do something.
Her resolve to succeed never wavered.
💡 Simply: It's like having a super strong will and not giving up on something. Like, "Her resolve to finish the marathon was amazing!"
👶 For kids: Being very sure you want to do something, and not changing your mind.
More Examples
The team showed impressive resolve in the face of adversity.
It took great resolve to overcome the challenges.
Despite the setbacks, he maintained his resolve.
How It's Used
"She showed great resolve in her recovery."
"The leader demonstrated strength of resolve."
A formal expression of opinion or intention, usually passed by a deliberative body.
/rɪˈzɒlv/
A formal expression of opinion or intention.
The city council passed a resolution to improve public transportation.
💡 Simply: It's like a formal decision made by a group of people, like a rule or a statement. Think of when the school makes a new rule.
👶 For kids: An important official decision that a group of people makes.
More Examples
The company put forward a resolution regarding employee benefits.
The UN drafted a resolution for world peace.
The committee voted on the resolution.
How It's Used
"The UN passed a resolution condemning the act."
"The board approved a resolution to change company policy."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
resolve itself
Of a situation, to be solved or to end in a satisfactory way without intervention.
"The situation will likely resolve itself."
From Latin *resolvere* ('to loosen, untie, or explain'), from *re-* ('again') + *solvere* ('to loosen').
The word 'resolve' has been used since the late 14th century, initially referring to dissolving or separating, and later to deciding and settling.
Memory tip
Imagine a scale balancing the pros and cons of your decision. Once the balance tips, you resolve to do it.
Word Origin
"to loosen, untie, or explain"