English Reference
Adjective

unresolved

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ənɹɪˈzɑɫvd/ UK /ˌʌnɹɪzˈɒlvd/ un·re·solved Psychology

adj.describing a problem, feeling, or situation that has not been settled or fixed yet. You use this when something is still bothering you or needs an answer.

adj.referring to a problem, conflict, or emotional state that remains without a solution or conclusion. Often used predicatively after 'remain' or 'feel'.


SIMPLE

The argument between the two friends remains unresolved.

CONTEXTUAL

Many patients find that their physical symptoms are actually linked to unresolved emotional trauma from their childhood.

COMPLEX

The novel's ending is intentionally unresolved, leaving the reader to speculate on the ultimate fate of the protagonist and the moral weight of his final decision.

Usage

Often follows linking verbs like 'remain', 'stay', or 'feel'; frequently modifies abstract nouns like 'conflict', 'issue', or 'trauma'.

Usage unresolved issue · unresolved question

The trial - which aims to put to rest one of America's most high-profile unresolved murders - comes 30 years after the West Coast rapper's death.

BBC News· 19 Aug 2026

The path to estrangement is usually gradual, marked by mounting tensions and unresolved conflicts.

The Conversation· 17 Aug 2026

From un- + resolved.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated