# resolving

/ɹiˈzɑɫvɪŋ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/resolving
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. solving a problem

verb · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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'.

### 2. making a firm decision

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

deciding strongly to do something.

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Frequently followed by a 'to' infinitive clause.

### 3. breaking into parts

verb · CEFR C2 · Technical

breaking something down into smaller, clearer parts.

For teachers: 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.

### 4. the act of deciding

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

the act of making a serious decision or promise.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- They are working on resolving the technical issues with the website.
- The mediator spent several hours resolving the disagreement between the two departments to ensure the project stayed on schedule.
- Successfully resolving such a deep-seated diplomatic crisis requires both patience and a willingness to compromise on long-held territorial claims.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.