Word
unresolved
Phoneticsun·re·solved, stress on the third syllable
US/ənɹɪˈzɑɫvd/
UK/ˌʌnɹɪzˈɒlvd/
Definition
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'.
Examples
“The argument between the two friends remains unresolved.”
“Many patients find that their physical symptoms are actually linked to unresolved emotional trauma from their childhood.”
“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.”
Examples
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.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “unresolved” in context.
Adjective
01. unresolved issue
“The boundary dispute remains an unresolved issue between the two neighboring countries.”
adj + noun
02. unresolved question
“There is still an unresolved question about how the virus first entered the population.”
adj + noun
Usage
Often follows linking verbs like 'remain', 'stay', or 'feel'; frequently modifies abstract nouns like 'conflict', 'issue', or 'trauma'.
Real-World Examples
“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.” “The path to estrangement is usually gradual, marked by mounting tensions and unresolved conflicts.” “Root will have regrets from his first attempt, and maybe a sense of unresolved business.” Etymology
From un- + resolved.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/unresolved