Settling: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually refers to the act of resolving or stabilizing a situation or reaching a state of calm. It can be used in both personal and professional settings.

• After years of moving, he finally found a place for settling.
• The situation was tense, but by the evening, things were settling down.

Indicates a firm decision to do or not to do something, or the act of solving a problem or dispute. It can be used in personal goals (e.g., New Year's resolutions) or in formal situations (e.g., conflict resolution).

• The UN adopted a resolution on climate change.
• She made a resolution to exercise more this year.

Used when two or more parties come to a mutual decision or understanding. Commonly used in legal, business, and interpersonal contexts.

• The two companies reached an agreement on the merger.
• They signed the agreement after lengthy negotiations.

Refers to a situation where each party gives up something in order to reach a mutual decision. It is often used in discussions about negotiations and conflict resolution.

• They managed to find a compromise that suited both parties.
• In any relationship, compromise is essential.

Used to describe the process of becoming lower or more structured, often referring to particles, feelings, or situations.

• After shaking the jar, you can see the sand gradually settling at the bottom.
• The city experienced rapid settling of dust after the storm.

Describes the process of an object or substance moving downwards, often due to gravity or loss of buoyancy. It can refer to literal or metaphorical contexts.

• The ship began sinking rapidly after hitting the iceberg.
• After hearing the bad news, he felt like his heart was sinking.

Refers to the gradual caving in or sinking of an area of land. This is often used in geology, construction, and real estate.

• The subsidence of the land affected several buildings in the area.
• Frequent mining activities lead to notable ground subsidence.

Typically refers to the geological process where particles settle out of a fluid into a new layer of sediment. It is often used in environmental sciences and engineering.

• Sedimentation in rivers can create new landforms over time.
• Efficient sedimentation of contaminants is crucial for water treatment plants.

Can also have a negative connotation when referring to accepting less than what one desires or deserves.

• He felt like he was settling by taking the lower-paying job
• Don't make the mistake of settling in your personal relationships

Refers specifically to the action of relocating to a new residence or place. It’s about the physical transition.

• They are moving in next week
• Moving in to a new apartment always brings an exciting set of challenges

Used when organizing or arranging things so they are ready to use. Commonly used for equipment, systems, or events.

• She was busy setting up the new computer system
• Setting up for the event took all morning

Best used when starting or forming something new, often related to businesses, organizations, or rules. It implies setting a foundation.

• They are establishing a new branch office in New York
• Establishing good communication channels is crucial for the project’s success