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 Every resolution that’s ever advanced humanity has moved forward without unanimous agreement. Jeanne M. Stafford, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025 Michael-Paul Hart, who leads the 25-member council's six Republicans, said that without penalties for parents, the resolution seems unlikely to improve safety among teens. Jordan Smith, IndyStar, 8 July 2025 Their cooperation and remediation efforts spared taxpayers the burden of cleanup costs and were appropriately considered in the resolution of the charges. Keith Matheny, Freep.com, 8 July 2025 The class is offered by the Peace and Justice Institute, an Orlando nonprofit that hosts workshops on topics like conflict resolution, understanding trauma, emotional intelligence and parenting. Michael Cuglietta, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for resolution
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resolution
Noun
  • The decision comes as the broadcaster weighs the impact on contestants who participated in the competition.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 23 July 2025
  • The Kansas City Royals aren't far out of playoff contention, but with a congested race in the American League, some teams will have to make tough decisions very soon.
    Hunter Mulholland, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 July 2025
Noun
  • The political scientist Robert Powell’s game theory model of conventional war and nuclear escalation, for example, has shown that the possibility of conventional war between nuclear powers depends on the level of risk and the balance of resolve.
    Carter Malkasian, Foreign Affairs, 17 July 2025
  • The idea is that Ukrainian resolve to keep fighting will be worn down, that political will in Europe will wane, and that the country will eventually capitulate.
    Matthew Chance, CNN Money, 15 July 2025
Noun
  • In the verdict’s wake, the National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association (NCATA) solidified an alliance with USA Gymnastics to officially sanction its competitions.
    Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 14 July 2025
  • Erin, who had been awaiting the verdict at the courthouse since deliberations began on Thursday, openly wept upon hearing the verdict of the first count read aloud.
    Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • However, their passion for the sport and determination led to changes in the rules, allowing Muslim women to compete in full-body uniforms at both collegiate and national levels.
    Brittney Melton, NPR, 14 July 2025
  • Distributions to heirs or charitable contributions can be made by the determination of an independent trustee.
    Martin Shenkman, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • This could have swayed people on social media, but that doesn’t normally impact fighter’s opinions.
    Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025
  • Another envelope would follow with the state’s response, then another with the court’s opinion.
    Dakin Andone, CNN Money, 20 July 2025
Noun
  • In fact… The Chinese military does use Nvidia chips, according to research by Georgetown’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology, which analyzed 66,000 military purchasing records to come to that conclusion.
    Billy Perrigo, Time, 15 July 2025
  • The series came to a dramatic conclusion on Sunday, July 23, when Amaya Espinal and Bryan Arenales were crowned season 7’s winners.
    Erin Clements, People.com, 15 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Resolution.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resolution. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on resolution

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