resolve
To settle or find a solution to a problem or dispute.
Examples
In a meeting
“We resolved the billing discrepancy and issued a credit to the client.”
Over coffee
“They finally resolved their argument and are talking again.”
Why this word
solve
resolve implies settling issues or finding solutions that fully address problems, while solve is finding any answer
fix
resolve suggests addressing underlying issues completely, while fix is making functional repairs
settle
resolve emphasizes definitively ending problems or conflicts, while settle can be temporary arrangement
Usage tip
Implies finality — the issue is done, not just improved. Stronger than 'address' and more final than 'work on'.
Etymology
Latin resolvere — re (back, again) + solvere (to loosen, release)
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Related words
mitigate
To make something less severe, serious, or painful.
alleviate
To make suffering, a problem, or a burden less severe.
circumvent
To find a way around an obstacle or restriction.
diagnose
To identify the cause or nature of a problem through examination.
remedy
To fix or correct something that is wrong; a solution to a problem.
reconcile
Make two conflicting things compatible or resolve a disagreement