Resolved

rɪˈzɒlvd

verbBeginner🔥Very CommonAction
3 meanings3 questions

Definitions

3 meanings
1

To find a solution to a problem or dispute.

rɪˈzɒlv

verbneutralBeginner
Action

To settle or find a solution to a problem or dispute.

They resolved the issue quickly.

💡 Simply: Like figuring out what to do when you and your friend want to play different games. If you talk it over and pick a game together, you've resolved the problem!

👶 For kids: When you fix something or make a decision about something.

More Examples

2

The committee resolved the matter with a compromise.

3

How can we resolve this disagreement?

How It's Used

Legal

"The court resolved the dispute in favor of the plaintiff."

Business

"The team resolved the conflict through mediation."

2

To make a firm decision about something.

rɪˈzɒlv

verbneutralBeginner
Action

To decide firmly on a course of action.

He resolved to quit smoking.

💡 Simply: It's like when you make a New Year's resolution! You're resolving to do something, like eat more veggies or be nicer to your brother.

👶 For kids: When you decide to do something.

More Examples

2

I resolved to be more patient.

3

She resolved to finish the project by Friday.

How It's Used

Personal

"She resolved to learn a new language."

Academic

"He resolved to study harder for the next exam."

Tip:Like setting a personal goal. You 'resolve' to achieve it.
3

Having or showing a firm determination to do something.

rɪˈzɒlvd

adjectivepositivemedium
Personality Trait

Showing or characterized by determination.

Her resolved attitude helped her overcome obstacles.

💡 Simply: It's like someone who never gives up! They're *resolved* to get what they want.

👶 For kids: When you really, really want to do something and you won't give up.

More Examples

2

A resolved expression on his face suggested he would not back down.

3

He remained resolved despite the setbacks.

How It's Used

Literary

"She was a resolved woman who faced her challenges head-on."

General

"The doctor’s resolved approach to treating his patients inspired confidence."

Tip:Think of someone with grit. They are 'resolved' to succeed.

From Middle English *resolven*, from Old French *re(s)oudre* 'to loosen, untie, explain, resolve', from Latin *resolvere* 'to loosen, release, explain, resolve', from *re-* 'back, again' + *solvere* 'to loosen, untie'.

The word 'resolve' has been used in legal and philosophical contexts since the 14th century, often relating to questions of judgment, decision-making, and settling conflicts. It has maintained its core meaning of finding solutions and making firm decisions across centuries.

Memory tip

Imagine a puzzle being solved. The pieces are 'resolved' into a complete picture.

Word Origin

LanguageLatin
Original meaning

"to loosen, release"

resolve a disputeresolve an issueresolve a conflictresolved toa resolved attitudea resolved expression

Common misspellings

revolvedreslovedreoslved

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written