square off
Definition
Verb: - To settle conclusively; to come to terms; to resolve a dispute or argument definitively.
Usage
The verb "square off" is used to describe the act of definitively resolving a conflict, disagreement, or argument. It implies reaching a final settlement or agreement that concludes the matter. It is often used in contexts involving negotiations, debates, or personal disputes.
Examples
- Verb:
- The two companies squared off their legal dispute out of court.
- After hours of negotiation, the union and management finally squared off.
- They decided to square off their differences and move forward as friends.
Advanced Usage
- "to square off against": While this is a distinct phrasal verb, it is a common variant. It means to confront or prepare to fight an opponent, often in a literal or figurative battle. It is crucial to distinguish this from the target meaning of settling conclusively.
- The two candidates will square off against each other in a televised debate. (This means to confront, not to settle.)
Variants and Related Words
- Settle (verb): To resolve or reach an agreement.
- Resolve (verb): To find a solution to a problem or dispute.
- Conclude (verb): To bring something to an end.
Synonyms
- Settle
- Resolve
- Conclude
- Finalize
- Work out
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Square up: This phrasal verb can have a similar meaning of settling accounts or resolving a matter, especially a financial one.
- Let's square up the bill before we leave.
Related Idioms
- To have it out: To settle a disagreement by discussing it openly and forcefully.
- They decided to have it out and clear the air once and for all.
Verb
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settle conclusively; come to terms
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We finally settled the argument
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