reconcile
Make two conflicting things compatible or resolve a disagreement
Examples
In a meeting
“We need to reconcile the budget discrepancies before month-end.”
Over coffee
“I can't reconcile what she said yesterday with what she's saying now.”
Why this word
resolve
Reconcile means making conflicting elements compatible, resolve is broader about solving problems
settle
Reconcile implies harmonizing differences while maintaining both elements, settle suggests finality
fix
Reconcile requires addressing contradiction, fix is informal and vague about the problem type
Usage tip
Use when bringing together opposing ideas, numbers, or people into agreement
Etymology
Latin 'reconciliare' — 're' (again) + 'conciliare' (bring together)
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Related words
circumvent
To find a way around an obstacle or restriction.
diagnose
To identify the cause or nature of a problem through examination.
recourse
A source of help or option available in a difficult situation
echo
To repeat or express agreement with someone's ideas or sentiments
finesse
To handle a situation skillfully and tactfully, often using subtle maneuvering
acquiesce
To accept or agree to something reluctantly but without protest