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Definition of resolvenext
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resolve

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb resolve differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of resolve are decide, determine, rule, and settle. While all these words mean "to come or cause to come to a conclusion," resolve implies an expressed or clear decision or determination to do or refrain from doing something.

he resolved to quit smoking

When might decide be a better fit than resolve?

In some situations, the words decide and resolve are roughly equivalent. However, decide implies previous consideration of a matter causing doubt, wavering, debate, or controversy.

she decided to sell her house

When could determine be used to replace resolve?

Although the words determine and resolve have much in common, determine implies fixing the identity, character, scope, or direction of something.

determined the cause of the problem

When is it sensible to use rule instead of resolve?

The words rule and resolve can be used in similar contexts, but rule implies a determination by judicial or administrative authority.

the judge ruled that the evidence was inadmissible

When would settle be a good substitute for resolve?

While the synonyms settle and resolve are close in meaning, settle implies a decision reached by someone with power to end all dispute or uncertainty.

the dean's decision settled the campus alcohol policy

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of resolve
Verb
Signs Your Oral Microbiome Is Out of Balance Persistent bad breath that does not resolve with brushing is one of the most common early signs of bacterial imbalance. Allison Palmer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 July 2026 The Chase-versus-Iredell debate embodied an instability, from the beginning of the country, regarding the fundamental question of what law is, which has never been fully resolved. Jeannie Suk Gersen, New Yorker, 2 July 2026
Noun
But some Russian analysts warn that hard-liners who advocate strikes against European targets involved in producing and supplying weapons to Ukraine, perhaps even staging a nuclear explosion to demonstrate Russia’s resolve, are growing in influence. Fred Weir, Christian Science Monitor, 30 June 2026 Speaking earlier on Sunday, Putin used a speech to the ruling United Russia party congress to reinforce his resolve to achieve the country's military objectives and project Russia's strength. Sam Meredith, CNBC, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for resolve
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resolve
Verb
  • Both Swift and Kelce decided to forgo bridesmaids and groomsmen, per a statement shared with People.
    Hannah Malach, InStyle, 4 July 2026
  • Later, Swift revealed that she was charmed by Kelce’s willingness to court her so publicly and decided to give him a chance.
    Rebecca Cohen, NBC news, 4 July 2026
Verb
  • Now back in King’s Landing, Corlys is distracted at best, meeting with Rhaenyra’s small council to address the crown’s nonexistent funds — the latest on a long list of problems that need solving for the new Queen of the Seven Kingdoms.
    Zoe Papelis, Vulture, 6 July 2026
  • Proponents argue recordings would solve a long-standing crisis that leaves many proceedings with no verbatim record.
    Sonja Sharp, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026
Verb
  • The revelation has divided Jefferson descendants for decades.
    Briana Stewart, ABC News, 4 July 2026
  • The sale sees the property divided into three lots with two buildable, giving the opportunity to create a treasurable family compound in rural seclusion just a 30-minute drive from the island’s main towns.
    Nielsen Dinwoodie, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
Noun
  • But as far as their defensive commitment goes, and their sheer determination to see the game plan through, Paraguay deserve at least a little credit for almost shutting an incredible team down.
    Stuart James, New York Times, 5 July 2026
  • For 250 years, Americans have overcome every challenge with grit, resilience, and determination.
    Ted Johnson, Deadline, 4 July 2026
Verb
  • The Kings chose to hold Emanuel Sharp, Adam Flagler and Jonathan Mogbo out of Monday’s game, but Acuff, Clifford and Cardwell returned to the lineup after sitting out Sunday’s win over Golden State.
    Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 7 July 2026
  • If an island getaway is favored, there are plenty of options across the globe to choose from, all with pristine beaches and seaside charm.
    Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2026
Verb
  • As the statisticians looked up the last time someone had lost the Wimbledon men’s final from such a position (John Bromwich in 1948), Djokovic could have unraveled.
    Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 5 July 2026
  • Princess Diana believed she was headed for a fairy-tale future with then-Prince Charles — until her dream unraveled.
    Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2026
Verb
  • This is not Copenhagen, which has wide boulevards where vehicles and bikes can be easily separated.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
  • The film tells the story of the tender yet destructive friendship between two 13-year-old boys who run away when they are threatened with being separated.
    Alissa Simon, Variety, 4 July 2026
Noun
  • James is an unrestricted free agent and the early timing of his decision allows the Lakers to approach free agency, which officially began Tuesday afternoon, with an almost clean slate.
    Broderick Turner, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026
  • Gaines said the decision felt like the culmination of the last several years of her life, but also a reminder of how far the debate had moved.
    Jackson Thompson OutKick, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Resolve.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resolve. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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