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resolution

rez-uh-LOO-shun /ˌrezəˈluːʃən/

nounB2TOEFLIELTS

formalpoliticalgeneral

A firm decision to do or not to do something; the action of solving a problem, dispute, or contentious matter; a formal expression of opinion or intention agreed upon by a legislative body or other formal meeting.

In international contexts, it often refers to a formal decision or statement adopted by a body like the UN Security Council, which can carry legal weight or express collective will.

The story behind the word. The word 'resolution' comes from the Latin 'resolvere', meaning 'to loosen, unbind, undo'. This root gives us the sense of 'solving' a problem by 'untying' its knots. Over time, it also came to mean a firm decision, as if one has 'unbound' themselves from indecision, and a formal declaration by an assembly.

Word relationships

decree: A decree is an official order or proclamation, often by a single authority, while a resolution is typically passed by a collective body.
verdict: A verdict is a decision in a legal case, while a resolution is a broader formal decision or statement.
determination: Determination can refer to a personal decision or firmness of purpose, similar to one sense of resolution.

indecision: Lack of a firm decision.
problem: A matter requiring a solution, the opposite of a resolution.

Word family

resolve (verb): To settle or find a solution to (a problem, dispute, or contentious matter); to make a firm decision to do something.
resolute (adjective): Admirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering.

Collocations

pass a resolution
draft a resolution
UN resolution
conflict resolution
firm resolution

Idioms & expressions

New Year's resolution

Example sentences

"The UN Security Council passed a resolution condemning the human rights abuses and imposing sanctions on the offending regime." UN Security Council action.
"Her New Year's resolution was to learn a new language and travel more." Personal determination.
"The quick resolution of the technical issue prevented any major disruption to the conference." Problem-solving.

Memory hook

Think of 're-solve' a problem. A resolution is a way to solve it or a firm decision to do so. Solve It!

When not to use

While it has broader meanings (like New Year's resolutions), in the context of international relations, it almost always refers to a formal document or decision.

Fun facts

UN Security Council resolutions are legally binding on all UN member states, unlike General Assembly resolutions, which are generally non-binding recommendations.