What does resolving mean?
Resolving means working to settle a problem, determine an unresolved question, or bring a disagreement to a satisfactory conclusion. It is the present participle of the verb resolve and commonly appears in expressions such as “resolving a conflict,” “resolving a dispute,” and “resolving an issue.” The word suggests more than simply identifying a difficulty: it implies actively determining a solution or clarifying the outcome. Resolution can involve compromise, evidence, negotiation, decision-making, or a formal procedure. In everyday use, resolving can sound neutral or positive, although contexts involving persistent conflict may make the process seem difficult or slow. Resolving is also used when a question or uncertainty is settled, as in a mystery being resolved or a technical problem being resolved. The related noun resolution likewise refers both to the process of settling something and to the determination or outcome reached.
verbEngaged in the process of settling, determining, or putting right a difficult situation or disagreement. As the present participle of resolve, it can also mean tending to settle or clear up something.
- Working to settle, determine, or put right a difficulty, dispute, or disagreement.
- Tending to clarify, separate, or resolve something.
"The committee spent the afternoon resolving disputes between local residents and the developers."
"Mediators are skilled at resolving conflicts between people who have stopped communicating."
"The new evidence was decisive in resolving the long-running question."
Resolving a dispute is more than finding a solution: it also means bringing an unresolved situation to a clear conclusion.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does resolving come from?
The word comes through Middle English from Latin resolvere, a compound of re-, meaning “back” or “again,” and solvere, meaning “to loosen” or “untie.” In Latin, resolvere acquired senses connected with separating, explaining, or resolving a question. English developed several related forms, including resolve, resolution, resolute, and resolver; absolute and dissolve also descend from the same Latin verb.
Related word forms
How resolving is actually used
Resolving is the present participle of the verb resolve and is used in progressive forms such as “is resolving” or “has been resolving.” The related adjective resolving is uncommon and is typically encountered in technical contexts.