resolution
rez-uh-LOO-shuhn
/ˌrɛzəˈluːʃən/
A firm decision to do or not to do something; the action of solving a problem or dispute.
In customer service, it refers to the final agreement that ends a complaint.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'resolvere,' meaning to 'untie' or 'loosen.' Think of a problem as a tangled knot; a resolution is the act of untying it so everything is clear again.
Word relationships
- settlement: Settlement often implies a legal or financial agreement; resolution is more general.
- impasse: A situation where no progress is possible.
Commonly confused with
- solution: A solution is the answer to a problem; a resolution is the act of bringing a conflict to an end.
Word family
- resolve (verb): to settle or find a solution
Collocations
- conflict resolution
- dispute resolution
- speedy resolution
- final resolution
Example sentences
- "We are pleased that we were able to reach a satisfactory resolution to your complaint." Closing a customer ticket.
Memory hook
RE-SOLUTION: You find the SOLUTION AGAIN to end the fight. Untying the problem.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'resolution' in terms of screen pixels, though they share a root.
Fun facts
- New Year's Resolutions use the same word because you are 'resolving' or firmly deciding to change.
Related words
Explore more words
resolute, settlement, mediation, decisive, dispute, compromise
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