settle
- 01 B1 Intermediate
v.to reach a decision or an agreement about an argument or problem.
v.to resolve a dispute, argument, or uncertain situation through agreement or decision.
Simple“The two neighbors finally settled their argument about the fence.”
In context“The legal teams worked through the night to settle the litigation before the trial could proceed to a jury verdict.”
- 02 B1 Intermediate
v.to go to live permanently in a new country or area.
v.to establish a permanent residence or colony in a new location.
Simple“Many immigrants settled in this city during the nineteenth century.”
In context“The pioneers settled in the fertile valley, attracted by the proximity to the river and the abundance of timber.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to become quiet, calm, or comfortable after being active or upset.
v.to become or make something calm, stable, or orderly; to cease being agitated.
Simple“It took a few minutes for the children to settle after the exciting game.”
In context“The dust took hours to settle after the old building was demolished by the construction crew.”
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to pay the money that you owe, such as a bill.
v.to discharge a debt or financial obligation by payment.
Simple“He settled his hotel bill before checking out early in the morning.”
In context“The company was required to settle all outstanding accounts with its suppliers before the merger could be finalized.”
- 05 C1 Advanced
v.to move slowly downward or to the bottom of a liquid.
v.to sink or subside gradually to a lower level or to the bottom of a container.
Simple“The foundations of the old house have settled into the soft ground.”
In context“Over several decades, the heavy stone structure settled unevenly, causing visible cracks to appear in the plaster of the upper floors.”
- 06 C2 Proficiency
n.a long wooden seat with a high back and arms, often found in old houses.
n.a long wooden bench with a high back and arms, typically featuring a storage chest beneath the seat.
Simple“An old oak settle stood by the fireplace in the country inn.”
In context“The antique settle, carved from dark mahogany, occupied a prominent position in the hallway of the manor house.”
“A friend and I settled on a rural location in Duratón, Spain, about 60 miles (100 kilometers) north of Madrid.”
“Charlie Caton scored twice but Accrington had to settle for a point in a 2-2 draw with Colchester.”