resolve underlying disputes

/rɪˈzɒlv ˌʌndəˈlaɪ.ɪŋ dɪˈspjuːts/

Meaning

To settle or find a solution to deep-seated, hidden, or fundamental conflicts that are the root cause of surface-level arguments. This formal phrase is common in counseling, mediation, and professional conflict resolution.

Examples

  • Before they can rebuild trust, they must first resolve underlying disputes.

    Before they can rebuild trust, they must first resolve underlying disputes.

  • The therapy sessions helped the couple resolve underlying disputes that had persisted for years.

    The therapy sessions helped the couple resolve underlying disputes that had persisted for years.

  • A professional mediator was hired to help the business partners resolve underlying disputes.

    A professional mediator was hired to help the business partners resolve underlying disputes.

  • Ignoring minor arguments will not help you resolve underlying disputes in your relationship.

    Ignoring minor arguments will not help you resolve underlying disputes in your relationship.

  • To prevent future friction, the management team met to resolve underlying disputes regarding division of labor.

    To prevent future friction, the management team met to resolve underlying disputes regarding division of labor.

Common Mistakes

  • ✗ They need to resolve underlaid disputes.

    ✓ They need to resolve underlying disputes.

    'Underlaid' refers to physical placement underneath. The correct adjective for fundamental, hidden psychological or situational issues is 'underlying'.

  • ✗ The counselor helped them to resolve underlying disputations.

    ✓ The counselor helped them to resolve underlying disputes.

    'Disputations' refers to formal academic or theological debates. 'Disputes' is the standard term for interpersonal or legal conflicts.

Related Expressions

address root causessettle deep-seated conflicts iron out differences

Practice

  • Couples therapy is often necessary to ___ that cause daily friction.

    💡 To settle the deep, hidden conflicts causing arguments.

    Show answer

    resolve underlying disputes

  • Without a clear strategy to ___, the business partnership will likely fail.

    💡 To fix the core issues between partners.

    Show answer

    resolve underlying disputes