Resolution’s earliest 14th century definition drew from its direct Latin source resolutionem (perhaps via the Old French resolution), which meant “a process of reducing things into simpler forms,” drawing from the notion of resolvere as a word for “loosen” or “untie.” Like the English word today, resolvere held a diverse array of additional meanings as well: “unyoke, undo; explain; relax; set free; make void, dispel.” Its root is the PIE leu- “to loosen, divide, cut apart.” “Solve” without the intensifying prefix has also carried similar meanings as it evolved.
The reductive/simplifying definition of “resolution” is still in use today, mostly via the notion of “solution” in scientific settings, though it is otherwise less common than other meanings, and most often in the form “resolve.” Notably, we see it in one of Hamlet’s existential soliloquies: O, that this too too solid [or sullied] flesh would melt, / Thaw, and resolve itself into a dew. (Here “resolve” is used to mean “dissolve, reduce to liquid.”)
In the 1540s, the word came to suggest the solving of a problem, first in terms of mathematical problems and later in terms of the resolution of a conflict (or, say, a political resolution or bill). The sense of “resolute” meaning firm or determined arose simultaneously, the notion being that one who is resolute has solved any dilemma and come to a firm decision. The optical sense of resolution (photo resolution, for example) arose in the 1860s, and also comes from this concept of fixedness and determination, suggesting a clear and unmuddled image, though this meaning is also thought to draw upon the concept of “resolving” as a word for separating something into components (as in dpi or pixels).
The word’s use in relation to New Year’s arose in the 1780s (or perhaps earlier) and suggested a firm plegde or decision to better oneself in the new year. As with many holiday traditions, New Year’s resolutions are rooted in religion. Babylonians were thought to be some of the first to make such resolutions, making promises to the gods to return borrowed objects and pay debts at the start of each year. Drawing from this earlier tradition, Romans also made promises to the two-faced god Janus, namesake of the month January. The Roman practice is the most the source of our contemporary practice of setting resolutions in the new year. The earliest New Year’s resolutions in English-speaking cultures tended to be rooted in piety and religious promises.
During the Medieval Era, there was yet another New Years-resolution tradition, known as the Vow of the Peacock, that has fallen out of practice in modern times. In Charles Dickens’ periodical All the Year Round, he wrote about the Vow of the Peacock, explaining that peacocks (and occasionally pheasants) represented “by the splendour and variety of their colours, the majesty of kings during the middle ages”—and were thought to be “the peculiar diet of valiant knights and heart-stricken lovers.” Therefore, in the new year, a great feast was held with a roasted peacock as its centerpiece. Each knight would make a vow of chivalry to the bird, after which it would be carved and divided among all those present.
[Portions of this originally appeared in my work on Writer’s Digest.]
1
a
: the act of analyzing a complex notion into simpler ones
c
: the act of determining
e
: the separating of a chemical compound or mixture into its constituents
f(1)
: the division of a prosodic element into its component parts
(2)
: the substitution in Greek or Latin prosody of two short syllables for a long syllable
g
: the analysis of a vector into two or more vectors of which it is the sum
2
: the subsidence of a pathological state (such as inflammation)
3
a
: something that is resolved
made a resolution to mend my ways
4
: a formal expression of opinion, will, or intent voted by an official body or assembled group
5
: the point in a literary work at which the chief dramatic complication is worked out
6
a
: the process or capability of making distinguishable the individual parts of an object, closely adjacent optical images, or sources of light
b
: a measure of the sharpness of an image or of the fineness with which a device (such as a video display, printer, or scanner) can produce or record such an image usually expressed as the total number or density of pixels in the image
a resolution of 1200 dots per inch
Synonyms
Choose the Right Synonym for resolution
the courage to support unpopular causes
mettle suggests an ingrained capacity for meeting strain or difficulty with fortitude and resilience.
a challenge that will test your mettle
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
resolution stresses firm determination to achieve one’s ends.
the resolution of pioneer women
tenacity adds to resolution implications of stubborn persistence and unwillingness to admit defeat.
held to their beliefs with great tenacity
Example Sentences
In June, the demagogic militia leader Moqtada al Sadr … sponsored a resolution requiring the government to seek permission of the parliament before asking the U.N. to reauthorize the presence of foreign forces in Iraq.
—
Lawrence Wright, New Yorker, 22 Oct. 2007
Perrotta tells a good story in a top-shelf romance kind of way, and you’ll very likely find yourself eager to get to the resolution once you’ve begun.
—Paul J. Griffiths, Commonweal, 21 Dec. 2007
The new revelation was that, in high resolution, the valley showed deep channels and scours sharply incised into bedrock …
—Bertram Schwarzschild, Physics Today, September 2007
In late August, the U.N. Security Council passed a resolution calling for peacekeepers to deploy to Darfur to stop a genocide that has claimed some 400,000 lives over the last three years.
—New Republic, 30 Oct. 2006
The OMEGA spectrometer on the European Space Agency’s Mars Express orbiter has gone where no spectrometer has gone before, covering near-infrared wavelengths and offering 10 times the resolution of earlier instruments.
—George Musser, Scientific American, December 2005
But Hannah’s brief resolution suddenly gave way, and all at once she clung to Kit, sobbing like a child.
—Elizabeth George Speare, The Witch of Blackbird Pond, 1987
Here again it would seem that the vicarious experience just once of seeing another human being completely «blotto» should be sufficient to engender a firm and unbreakable resolution never to take a chance on making a similarly disgusting spectacle of oneself.
—David A. Embury, The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks, 1970
a court for the resolution of civil disputes
We found a resolution to the dispute.
computer screens with high resolutions
The monitor has excellent resolution.
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Recent Examples on the Web
The council will also consider a resolution approving the 2023-24 annual Public Housing Agency Plan for submission to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
—Laura Groch, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Apr. 2023
The resolution approved by the committee, which is chaired by Ald.
—Sarah Volpenhein, Journal Sentinel, 31 Mar. 2023
Those efforts have paid dividends at home and abroad, the AP found: Lawmakers delayed legislation Beijing didn’t like, nixed resolutions that conveyed displeasure with its actions and expressed support in ways that enhanced the Chinese government’s image.
—Jay Nordlinger, National Review, 30 Mar. 2023
The joint resolution, which cleared the House earlier this year, now heads to President Joe Biden’s desk.
—Alexandra Meeks, CNN, 30 Mar. 2023
The resolution, which has already passed the House, cleared the Senate Wednesday in a 53-43 vote.
—Kristina Peterson, WSJ, 29 Mar. 2023
Repair work can begin in light of the Finance Committee’s approval of the resolution, which does not require adoption by the full Advertising and Promotion Commission.
—Joseph Flaherty, Arkansas Online, 29 Mar. 2023
Not only does the Studio Display sport a crisp 5K resolution, but it’s also got some nice speakers and mics built in.
—Antonio G. Di Benedetto, The Verge, 29 Mar. 2023
Two resolutions – one to shift money to pay Chief Administrative Officer Anita Harden and one to appoint a vice president to fill Bigsbee’s role – failed to pass Monday as the six board members evenly split their votes.
—The Indianapolis Star, 28 Mar. 2023
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These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word ‘resolution.’ Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Etymology
Middle English resolucioun, from Anglo-French or Latin; Anglo-French resolucion, from Latin resolution-, resolutio, from resolvere — see resolve entry 1
First Known Use
14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of resolution was
in the 14th century
Dictionary Entries Near resolution
Cite this Entry
“Resolution.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/resolution. Accessed 14 Apr. 2023.
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4 Apr 2023
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
Other forms: resolutions
The noun resolution has a few related meanings having to do with being firmly determined about something. If you lack determination, you’ll never fulfill your New Year’s resolutions.
Resolution is the noun form of the verb resolve, derived from the Latin resolvere, «to loosen, undo, settle.» We can still see this meaning of resolution in the sense of «an explanation» or «a solution» — when a problem, conflict, or mystery reaches its resolution, it has been «undone,» so to speak. If you approach a task with resolution, you do it with determination. And if you make a resolution, you make a firm decision to do something or meet some goal.
Definitions of resolution
-
noun
a decision to do something or to behave in a certain manner
“he always wrote down his New Year’s
resolutions” -
noun
a statement that solves a problem or explains how to solve the problem
-
synonyms:
answer, result, solution, solvent
see moresee less-
types:
-
denouement
the final resolution of the main complication of a literary or dramatic work
-
type of:
-
statement
a message that is stated or declared; a communication (oral or written) setting forth particulars or facts etc
-
denouement
-
noun
something settled or resolved; the outcome of decision making
“they never did achieve a final
resolution of their differences”-
synonyms:
closure, settlement
-
noun
a formal expression by a meeting; agreed to by a vote
-
synonyms:
declaration, resolve
see moresee less-
examples:
-
Declaration of Independence
the document recording the proclamation of the second Continental Congress (4 July 1776) asserting the independence of the Colonies from Great Britain
-
types:
-
joint resolution
a resolution passed by both houses of Congress which becomes legally binding when signed by the Chief Executive (or passed over the Chief Executive’s veto)
-
type of:
-
document, papers, written document
writing that provides information (especially information of an official nature)
-
Declaration of Independence
-
noun
the final resolution of the main complication of a literary or dramatic work
-
noun
the trait of being resolute
“it was his unshakeable
resolution to finish the work”-
synonyms:
firmness, firmness of purpose, resoluteness, resolve
see moresee less-
Antonyms:
-
irresoluteness, irresolution
the trait of being irresolute; lacking firmness of purpose
-
types:
- show 17 types…
- hide 17 types…
-
possession, self-command, self-control, self-possession, self-will, will power, willpower
the trait of resolutely controlling your own behavior
-
steadiness
freedom from wavering or indecision; constancy of resolve or conduct
-
sturdiness
resoluteness evidenced by strength of character
-
stiffness
firm resoluteness in purpose or opinion or action
-
bullheadedness, obstinacy, obstinance, pigheadedness, self-will, stubbornness
resolute adherence to your own ideas or desires
-
single-mindedness
characterized by one unified purpose
-
adamance, obduracy, unyieldingness
resoluteness by virtue of being unyielding and inflexible
-
decision, decisiveness
the trait of resoluteness as evidenced by firmness of character or purpose
-
determination, purpose
the quality of being determined to do or achieve something; firmness of purpose
-
steadfastness
steadfast resolution
-
nerves
control of your emotions
-
presence of mind
self-control in a crisis; ability to say or do the right thing in an emergency
-
impenitence, impenitency
the trait of refusing to repent
-
intransigence, intransigency
the trait of being intransigent; stubbornly refusing to compromise
-
doggedness, perseverance, persistence, persistency, pertinacity, tenaciousness, tenacity
persistent determination
-
indefatigability, indefatigableness, tirelessness
tireless determination
-
diligence, industriousness, industry
persevering determination to perform a task
-
type of:
-
trait
a distinguishing feature of your personal nature
-
irresoluteness, irresolution
-
noun
finding a solution to a problem
-
noun
the ability of a microscope or telescope to measure the angular separation of images that are close together
-
noun
(computer science) the number of pixels per square inch on a computer-generated display; the greater the resolution, the better the picture
-
noun
analysis into clear-cut components
-
noun
(music) a dissonant chord is followed by a consonant chord
-
noun
the subsidence of swelling or other signs of inflammation (especially in a lung)
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘resolution’.
Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors.
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This month’s free Desktop Wallpaper. Antarctica, December 2011.
Click the image to get the full-resolution version. Speaking of resolution…
Resolution or Resolve?
I was going to let New Year’s eve come and go without using the word resolution. But then I started thinking about my own reluctance to embrace the whole topic, and I felt a sermon growing….
It’s that time of year again, when we as a culture gather our collective optimism and in one great seizure of denial we’ll make promises to ourselves that, for the most part, are mercifully short-lived, coming into this world all but stillborn and saving us from changing our lives for yet another trip around the sun. I’m weary of seeing friends making resolutions but seeing no change in their lives, lives that I know are so full of brilliance and potential; so many resolutions, so little resolve, and so very little change.
A resolution is a one-time decision. A mile-marker on our journey, on which we look back when we forget from whence we’ve come and lost sight of where we’re going. But it’s nothing more. The moment you make it, it begins to lose its momentum, and there are very few of us for whom that resolution carries much lasting strength. It’s just the way it is. It’s a strong indicator of a desire, but a poor agent of change. It may, at best, be a compass, but it’s not an engine. And waiting for the magic of January One is just silliness. Do it now. Not tomorrow. Not later.
Over this past year I’ve had greater opportunity to reflect on my life than I expected. Whether I’m “Living the dream” or not, I am unashamedly living my own dreams. But none of them come on a silver platter. They come with intention and resolve, they come rough and demand polishing, and they – all of them – extract a price. But I am amazed at how much we can accomplish when we pay that price, and stop screwing around, living our lives in such ad hoc fashion. Whatever it is you hope for this coming year, don’t stop at resolutions. Find resolve. Then map it out. How are you going to do it? Monthly, weekly, daily, what does this dream require of you? Now do it, and do it with all the strength you’ve got. You have one brief, beautiful, unique life to live, and only a limited handful of matches with which to set your world ablaze. Don’t you dare waste them.
January 2012 Desktop Wallpaper.
You knew it had to be Antarctica on this month’s wallpaper, didn’t you? 🙂 This is a 2560 x 1600 desktop wallpaper, so it’ll fit everything from iPads to 30″ displays, just click HERE for the full-resolution image.
Heading to Africa.
On New Year’s Day I’ll be on an early evening flight to Frankfurt, then on to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to join Jeffrey Chapman and 8 others for the next Within The Frame Adventure. We’re heading north from Addis to the ancient town of Lalibela to join thousands of pilgrims for Orthodox Christmas. I was there 5 or 6 years ago and it was one of the most magical experiences of my life. I remember at the time thinking how much I just wanted several days to explore and photograph, but our itinerary didn’t allow it. Now we’ll have that time. Can’t hardly wait. 🙂 I’ve no idea how accessible internet will be, but if I can do so, I’ll drop a line. Then on the 14th we return to Addis, head to Nairobi and get ready for the Masai Mara Within The Frame adventure, and I’ll probably be off the map until I get home from Zanzibar on/around the 1stof February. But if I can send a postcard, I will. Happy New Year, friends.
The exact meaning of resolution in a digital context is fuzzy. I will list the different uses of the word and resolve confusion. This article will help you find the sweet spot between sharp looking images and proper file size.
The word resolution is to a large extent a technical term used by digital producers. To the consumer it mostly translates as sharpness, clearness of a display (and has impact on file size and bandwidth). We all turn into producers, and this article can help you navigate the topic of resolution. The information will give you good understanding of the different kinds of resolution and help you produce sharp looking images and video’s for your audience.
So let’s jump right in! The word resolution is being used to describe these three different concepts:
- Screen resolution: physical pixels in a screen
- Point resolution: points used to show something on a screen
- Image resolution: pixels used to represent a digital image or video frame
Here is an image to illustrate the different values these concepts will give:
Let’s go into a bit more depth for all three different uses of the word resolution, and the differences will get much clearer.
Screen resolution
The resolution of a screen is pretty factual, and this is a physical property. It typically says something like: the screen resolution is 1080 by 780 pixels. So you could take a magnifying glass and examine the screen. You would actually see these pixels as a tiny hole radiating coloured light.
Some typical screen resolutions with an aspect ratio of 16:9 are QHD (2560 x 1440) and 4K UHD (3840 x 2160).
Point resolution
The resolution of display refers to how many points are used to show something on the physical screen. This also is often called screen resolution.
Let’s take an iPhone 12 Mini as an example. The screen has 1.080 physical pixels horizontally and 2.340 pixels vertically. The resolution for display of this device is 375 points by 812 points.
For a long time these two kind of resolution matched 1 on 1. One pixel in the image matched the physical pixel in the display. Now that the screens have become so good (the eye can’t see individual pixels any more at the right viewing distance) there are more physical pixels than virtual pixels.
This site gives you information of the screen you are currently using: https://www.mydevice.io
Image resolution
Take a deep breath, there is one more meaning of resolution that is thrown around. The resolution of a digital image and video.
Here, the term is used to explain how many pixels were used to represent the image or video frame. In traditional television this is a pretty well-defined set of standards, on digital devices it can take many measures or shapes.
Let’s say you shoot a picture with a 12 mbps camera, the resulting photo will have a resolution that might have a height of 3024 pixels and a width of 4032 pixels. If you shoot a video with the same device, it probably will give you an option to pick a resolution. For instance: 720p, 1080p or 4K.
So here the word resolution also get its notion of sharpness of the image. When it can be captured and displayed in high resolution (so with many pixels) our eyes will see a more clear picture. Because it involves more data to represent, the image file size and/or bandwidth for streaming will increase.
Summary
In this article, I tried to resolve some of the confusion around the meaning of the word resolution in the context of screens and digital images. The term is sometimes used for different things that have overlapping meaning.
How many lights points does a physical screen have (screen resolution), how many points will be the default display for interacting with it (point resolution) and how many discrete, coloured dots can a camera capture and store (image resolution).
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