Definition of resolutionnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word resolution distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of resolution are courage, mettle, spirit, and tenacity. While all these words mean "mental or moral strength to resist opposition, danger, or hardship," resolution stresses firm determination to achieve one's ends.

the resolution of pioneer women

When might courage be a better fit than resolution?

The words courage and resolution are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, courage implies firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme difficulty.

the courage to support unpopular causes

When can mettle be used instead of resolution?

While in some cases nearly identical to resolution, mettle suggests an ingrained capacity for meeting strain or difficulty with fortitude and resilience.

a challenge that will test your mettle

When is spirit a more appropriate choice than resolution?

The synonyms spirit and resolution are sometimes interchangeable, but spirit also suggests a quality of temperament enabling one to hold one's own or keep up one's morale when opposed or threatened.

her spirit was unbroken by failure

How are the words tenacity and resolution related?

Tenacity adds to resolution implications of stubborn persistence and unwillingness to admit defeat.

held to their beliefs with great tenacity

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of resolution The resolution was largely well-received, passing 123-3. Justin Klawans, TheWeek, 30 Mar. 2026 The City Council unanimously approved a resolution at the meeting to allow the Fire Department to use the crews in Oceanside and with other agencies in the region on a cost-recovery basis, along with a chart of fees for the various services. Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 Mar. 2026 Late Friday, House Republicans approved the 60-day continuing resolution with support from just three Democrats. Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 30 Mar. 2026 The use and sale of fireworks in Davis remain prohibited unless authorized by the City Council, which approves a resolution for the Independence Day show each year, city spokesperson Barbara Archer said. Daniel Lempres, Sacbee.com, 30 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for resolution
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resolution
Noun
  • All decisions of the judges regarding this Promotion are final and binding in all respects.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Apr. 2026
  • Olsson and Garden set a deadline in the summer for a point at which Olsson wouldn’t take any more calls, providing the time and space to make her decision without noise.
    Megan Feringa, New York Times, 1 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Freshman pitcher Raquel Pineda impressed in the circle, the defense produced several sparkling plays and the Mariners showed their resolve to edge Cypress 2-1 at Pacifica High.
    Dan Albano, Oc Register, 27 Mar. 2026
  • John Castle’s journey, full of one existential calamity after another, would challenge any human’s resolve.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 27 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The verdict could trigger a broader legal reckoning across Big Tech akin to Big Tobacco litigation.
    Kamal Ahmed, Fortune, 26 Mar. 2026
  • The verdict The JW Marriott Tokyo confidently blends understated style with a sense of Japanese refinement, and the result is a tranquil, enchanting space in the beating heart of one of the world’s most intoxicating cities.
    Stephen Kelly, TheWeek, 26 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • That work was on display this week as Thomas Jefferson High School junior Bella Smith helped younger students hunt for Easter eggs – a simple moment that mirrors her own determination.
    Robbie Owens, CBS News, 2 Apr. 2026
  • Those determinations complete the World Cup’s 48-team draw, as well as the full schedule, as North America for the first time serves as host.
    Michael McGough, Sacbee.com, 1 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author's and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.
    Johnny C. Taylor Jr, USA Today, 31 Mar. 2026
  • Ask your server for their opinion on the natural wines, or go for a low-key aperitivo.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, and the head of Central Command, Admiral Brad Cooper, have been models of clarity, calm, and decisiveness.
    Eliot A. Cohen, The Atlantic, 25 Mar. 2026
  • Beyond his onstage excellence, Grady runs our props department with remarkable effectiveness and decisiveness.
    Heide Janssen, Oc Register, 15 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • In forensic anthropology, this conclusion typically follows analysis of bone condition, degradation and other physical markers that help specialists estimate how long remains have been interred or stored.
    Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Mar. 2026
  • Again, there were hints in the data but no definitive conclusions.
    Mariangela Lisanti, Twin Cities, 27 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Resolution.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resolution. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

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