Unresolved Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unresolved

[ˌʌnrɪˈzɒlvd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

issue

Not resolved or decided

Synonyms

pending, undecided, unsettled.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unresolved

Use this word to describe a problem or issue that has not been settled or solved yet. It often implies a serious or significant matter.

  • The conflict remains unresolved
  • There are still many unresolved questions
unsettled

This word can describe both a state of anxiety and a situation or issue that has not been resolved or stabilized. It has a slightly negative connotation.

  • She felt unsettled after hearing the news
  • The matter remains unsettled
pending

This word is mostly used in official or formal contexts, often referring to a decision, event, or situation that is awaiting a resolution or is in process.

  • Your application is still pending
  • The decision is pending approval
undecided

This word is appropriate when referring to situations or choices where no firm decision has yet been made, often involving personal decisions or elections.

  • I am still undecided about my vacation plans
  • The voters are still undecided

Examples of usage

  • The conflict remains unresolved.
  • The issue is still unresolved after weeks of discussion.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In psychological contexts, unresolved issues can lead to stress or anxiety if not addressed.
  • The concept of unresolved conflict is key in therapy, as therapists help people face and settle these hidden issues.

Literature

  • In storytelling, unresolved plots can create tension, prompting readers to crave outcomes, often seen in cliffhangers.
  • Classic novels often explore unresolved emotions, showcasing characters' internal conflicts and growth throughout their journeys.

Conflict Resolution

  • Unresolved conflicts in negotiations can lead to long-term issues and hinder relationships if not managed correctly.
  • Mediation is a technique used to resolve disputes, aiming to reach agreements on issues that remain unresolved.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often leave certain storylines unresolved, leading to sequels or spin-offs to satisfy eager fans.
  • Music frequently addresses unresolved feelings in relationships, illustrating the emotional impact of open-ended situations.

Origin of 'unresolved'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'resolve', which means to find a solution. Adding 'un-' means the opposite of finding a solution.
  • It first appeared in English text in the 16th century, often related to disputes or conflicts that remained unsettled.

The word 'unresolved' is formed by adding the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' to the word 'resolved'. The concept of something being unresolved has been present in human communication for centuries, as people have always encountered issues and conflicts that have not yet been settled or decided. The adjective 'unresolved' is commonly used in various contexts to describe situations, problems, or conflicts that have not reached a resolution.


See also: irresolute, irresolvable, resoluteness, resolution, resolvability, resolve, resolver, resolving.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,313, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.