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reconcile

v.
US //ˈɹɛkənˌsaɪɫ// UK //ɹˈɛkənsˌaɪl// rec·on·cile
  1. 1 to restore a relationship (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to become friendly again after a fight or disagreement.

    to restore friendly relations between parties after a period of conflict or estrangement.

    Example

    After not speaking for years, the two brothers finally managed to reconcile.

    Example

    The mediator worked tirelessly to reconcile the warring factions, eventually securing a fragile peace treaty that satisfied both leaderships.

    Usage

    Often used with 'with' when an object is present.
  2. 2 to make ideas coexist (v.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    to find a way to make two different ideas or facts exist together without conflict.

    to make two seemingly incompatible concepts, facts, or beliefs consistent with one another.

    Example

    It is sometimes hard to reconcile your personal beliefs with your professional duties.

    Example

    The philosopher attempted to reconcile the existence of evil with the concept of a benevolent deity, a challenge that has persisted for centuries.

    Usage

    Typically takes a direct object followed by 'with'.
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  1. 3 to check financial records (v.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Formal Law

    to check that two sets of numbers, like a bank statement and your own records, match exactly.

    to ensure that the net difference in credits and debits of a financial account agrees with the corresponding balance.

    Example

    The accountant needs to reconcile the bank statement with the company's internal records.

    Example

    At the end of each fiscal quarter, the treasury department must reconcile all outstanding invoices to ensure the ledger reflects the actual cash flow.

    Usage

    Commonly used in accounting and legal contexts regarding audits.
Origin

Borrowed from Latin reconciliō.

Word family

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