resolve

Definitions

re- (again) + solvere (loosen) = 'loosen again.' This split into two paths. Loosening a tangle outward gives 'resolve a dispute' (close to solve). Loosening your hesitations inward — clearing doubt until one firm intent remains — gives 'resolve to do' and the noun 'resolve' (determination).

Why It Means This

Why does one word mean both 'settle a conflict' and 'firmly decide'? Both are acts of loosening. To resolve a problem is to loosen the knot in the situation. To resolve to act is to loosen the knot of doubt inside yourself, so a single clear decision can come free. The conflict-solving sense stayed near 'solve'; the determination sense traveled inward.

Common Collocations

• 1.resolve a conflict解决冲突
• 2.resolve to do something决心做某事
• 3.resolve differences化解分歧
• 4.peacefully resolve和平解决

Example Sentences

• 1.

  The two sides met to resolve their long-running dispute.

• 2.

  After the scare, she resolved to see a doctor every year.

• 3.

  Nothing could shake his resolve to finish the climb.