Language Research

settle · verb

/ˈset̬.əl/Full view

settle (ARGUMENT)

B2 T If you settle an argument, you solve the problem and stop arguing.

Dictionary examples:

My father and I have agreed finally to settle our differences.

It took months to settle the dispute.

Learner example:

Caroline and her husband had had an argument last week, but as he was going to be away for a few days, they had finally settled their differences. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Spanish)

settle (LIVE)

B2 I to start living somewhere that you are going to live for a long time

Dictionary examples:

After they got married, they settled in Kentucky.

He traveled around Europe for a year before finally settling in Toronto.

Learner example:

I can understand why you have decided to settle near the Loire Valley, which is one of the greatest part[s] of France. (First Certificate in English; B2; French)

settle (DECIDE)

B2 T to decide or arrange something

Dictionary examples:

OK, that's settled. We're going to Spain.

They haven't yet settled when the wedding is going to be.

"The tickets are $60 each." "Well, that settles that - I can't afford that much."

I'd like to get this matter settled once and for all.

The details of the contract have not yet been settled.

Learner example:

I really hope it will not take you long to settle the matter. (First Certificate in English; B2; Russian)

settle (DUST/SAND, ETC.)

C1 I to move to a lower level and stay there

Dictionary examples:

The house had been empty for years, and dust had settled on all the surfaces.

Sand blown by the high winds had settled on the streets and lawns of the seaside town.

The contents of this package may settle.

Learner example:

Whenever I have cleaned my shel[ve]s you can just watch the dust settle on [them]. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; German)

settle (PAY)

C2 T If you settle a bill or a debt, you pay the money that you owe.

Dictionary example:

I've got some bills to settle.

Learner example:

Many individuals are caught overspending when they check their credit card statements, later having to borrow from money lenders to settle their bills. (International English Language Testing System; C2; Malay)

settle down (FEEL COMFORTABLE)

B2 to become familiar with a place and to feel happy and confident in it

Dictionary example:

She quickly settled down in her new house/job/school.

Learner example:

He seemed to be such a nice guy and I was very happy to find you [have] settled down so well in your new life. (First Certificate in English; B2; Portuguese)

settle down (MAKE HOME)

C1 to start living in a place where you intend to stay for a long time

Dictionary example:

Eventually I'd like to settle down and have a family, but not yet.

Learner example:

I guess the changes occur once the young couple decides to marry and settle down. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Swedish)

settle (sb) down

C2 to become quiet and calm, or to make someone quiet and calm

Dictionary examples:

They settled down on the sofa to watch the movie.

Come on class, stop talking and settle down, please!

Learner example:

You should welcome your relatives, make them settle down and ask them to wait a moment. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Greek)

settle in

C1 to begin to feel relaxed and happy in a new home or job

Dictionary example:

Are you settling in OK?

Learner example:

After you settle in, you'll find there's a lot of way[s] to save money on food. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Chinese)