Settle: meaning, definitions and examples

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settle

 

[ˈsɛt(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a dispute

To settle means to reach an agreement or resolution in a dispute or conflict. It involves coming to a mutual understanding or compromise to end the disagreement.

Synonyms

conclude, decide, resolve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
settle

Typically used when resolving disputes or making a place to live. It implies coming to an agreement or calm state after a disagreement or situation.

  • They managed to settle their differences after the meeting
  • She decided to settle in a small village
resolve

Commonly used to solve problems, conflicts, or disputes. It implies finding a solution to a serious or complex issue.

  • They worked hard to resolve their conflicts
  • The puzzle was difficult to resolve
conclude

Used when finishing something, often with a summary or decision. Suitable for wrapping up meetings, research, discussions.

  • They concluded the meeting with a summary of key points
  • The researchers concluded that more study is needed
decide

Appropriate for making a choice or determination among options. It focuses on the act of choosing.

  • She finally decided on the blue dress
  • We need to decide whether to go on vacation

Examples of usage

  • The two parties finally settled their dispute out of court.
  • Let's settle this argument once and for all.
Context #2 | Verb

to establish a residence

To settle can also mean to establish a residence or make a home in a particular place. It involves making a permanent or long-term commitment to live in a specific location.

Synonyms

dwell, live, reside.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
settle

Typically used when talking about establishing a permanent residence in a new place or resolving a situation or dispute.

  • They decided to settle in the small town after retiring.
  • The two parties came to an agreement to settle their differences.
reside

Used in more formal contexts, often in legal or official documents, to describe where someone lives.

  • The president resides at the White House.
  • She currently resides in Spain.
dwell

Often used in a somewhat formal or poetic context when talking about living in a place, frequently with a focus on the act of living rather than the place itself. Can also mean to linger on a subject, often in a negative sense.

  • He dwells in a cottage by the sea.
  • Sometimes it's best not to dwell on past mistakes.
live

Commonly used in everyday conversation to describe the act of residing in a place or leading a certain lifestyle.

  • I live in New York City.
  • They live a very healthy lifestyle.

Examples of usage

  • After years of traveling, she decided to settle down in the countryside.
  • They plan to settle in the city and start a new life.
Context #3 | Noun

a small village

A settle can refer to a small village or community, especially in rural areas. It usually implies a close-knit group of people living together.

Synonyms

community, hamlet, village.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
settle

Use 'settle' when referring to making a place your permanent home or resolving a dispute. It can also refer to a small, often rural community.

  • They decided to settle in the countryside after retiring.
  • The neighbors finally managed to settle their differences.
village

Use 'village' to describe a small community or group of houses in a rural area, typically larger than a hamlet but smaller than a town. It often includes amenities like a church and shops.

  • The village was famous for its beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
  • They visited a coastal village during their summer vacation.
hamlet

Use 'hamlet' when referring to a very small settlement, typically smaller than a village and usually without its own church or local government.

  • The quaint hamlet consisted of just a few houses and a small inn.
  • They spent the weekend exploring the nearby hamlets and enjoying the tranquility.
community

Use 'community' when talking about a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common. It's often used to highlight the social aspect and shared interests of the group.

  • The local community came together to clean up the park.
  • She is very active in the art community.

Examples of usage

  • The tiny settle was nestled in the mountains, far from the bustling city.
  • The settlers relied on each other for support in the small settle.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originated from the Old English 'setlan,' meaning to place or cause to sit.
  • Over time, it evolved in meaning, from simply sitting down to establishing a home or base.
  • In many Germanic languages, similar words share the root, reflecting the concept of placing or standing.

Historical Context

  • Ancient farmers settled down into permanent homes, leading to the rise of early civilizations.
  • The westward expansion of the United States in the 1800s saw many people settle in new territories, reshaping the nation's geography.
  • Settlements often created conflicts over land use, showcasing struggles between indigenous peoples and newcomers.

Psychology

  • Settling can refer to a mental state when individuals accept situations or environments, even if they are not ideal.
  • People often struggle with the decision to settle in relationships, weighing stability against the desire for adventure.
  • The concept of 'settling down' is associated with emotional maturity and a desire for stability.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often depict characters settling in a new town, showcasing their adventures and challenges.
  • The phrase 'settling for less' appears commonly in songs and literature, highlighting the tension between ambition and contentment.
  • Television series frequently explore the theme of characters finding new homes and communities, representing personal growth.

Education

  • In social studies, children learn about how ancient cultures transitioned from nomadic lifestyles to settled farming communities.
  • Educational methods encourage students to settle into their learning environments for better focus and productivity.
  • Conflict resolution in classrooms often involves encouraging students to 'settle' disagreements amicably.

Translations

Translations of the word "settle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 resolver

🇮🇳 समाधान करना

🇩🇪 lösen

🇮🇩 menyelesaikan

🇺🇦 вирішити

🇵🇱 rozwiązać

🇯🇵 解決する (kaiketsu suru)

🇫🇷 régler

🇪🇸 resolver

🇹🇷 çözmek

🇰🇷 해결하다 (haegyeolhada)

🇸🇦 حل (ḥall)

🇨🇿 vyřešit

🇸🇰 vyriešiť

🇨🇳 解决 (jiějué)

🇸🇮 rešiti

🇮🇸 leysa

🇰🇿 шешу

🇬🇪 განხორციელება (gankhorcieleba)

🇦🇿 həll etmək

🇲🇽 resolver

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,608, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.