Settle: meaning, definitions and examples

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settle

 

[ ˈsɛt(ə)l ]

Verb / Noun
Oxford 3000
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.

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

Etymology

The word 'settle' originates from the Old English word 'setlan', which means 'to place or arrange'. Over time, it evolved to encompass various meanings related to resolving disputes, establishing homes, and forming communities. The concept of settling has been fundamental in human history, from early settlements of nomadic tribes to modern-day negotiations and agreements.

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.