English Reference

Word

resolving

Phoneticsre·solv·ing

/ɹiˈzɑɫvɪŋ/

Definitions

01solving a problem

B2

v. finding a way to fix a problem or end an argument.

v. the process of finding a satisfactory solution to a dispute, conflict, or complex problem.

“Resolving the argument between the two friends took a long time.”

“Resolving the long-standing border dispute required months of delicate diplomatic negotiations and concessions from both sovereign nations.”

Usage

Often used with abstract nouns like 'conflict', 'issue', or 'dispute'.

02making a firm decision

C1

v. deciding strongly to do something.

v. forming a firm intention or formal expression of opinion.

“Resolving to eat more healthily is a common goal for the new year.”

“Resolving to improve corporate transparency, the board of directors implemented a series of rigorous internal auditing protocols.”

Formal

Usage

Frequently followed by a 'to' infinitive clause.

03breaking into parts

C2 · Science

v. breaking something down into smaller, clearer parts.

v. separating or reducing something into its constituent parts or elementary forms.

“The prism works by resolving white light into different colours.”

“The new microscope is capable of resolving individual atoms within the crystal lattice, providing unprecedented structural detail.”

Technical

Synonyms

analysingbreaking down

04the act of deciding

C1

n. the act of making a serious decision or promise.

n. the action of forming a resolution or a firm determination.

“The resolving of the committee's doubts led to a final vote.”

“The successful resolving of these technical difficulties allowed the project to proceed ahead of the original schedule.”

Formal

Antonyms

Real-World Examples

“I understood almost none of it at first: words I’d read were coming to life in the room, spoken by their author, and still not resolving into sense.”
Aeon · 25 Sept 2026
“Google’s dynamic range is also better than you’ll see on other devices, resolving details in light and shadow very well.”
Ars Technica · 19 Aug 2026

Word family

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/resolving

English Reference