Resolution means determination and firmness of purpose. When someone shows resolution, they commit to a goal and stick with it even when things get difficult. A student studying for a challenging spelling bee demonstrates resolution by practicing every day, even when they'd rather play outside. A scientist working on a cure for a disease shows resolution by continuing experiments despite failures.

The word comes from the idea of being resolved: your mind is made up, and you won't be easily shaken. People with resolution don't give up when obstacles appear. They might feel discouraged, but they keep working toward what they've decided matters.

Resolution also means the act of solving a problem or ending a conflict. When two friends have an argument and talk it through until they understand each other, that's a resolution to their disagreement. In a story, the resolution is the part at the end where mysteries get solved and conflicts get settled.

Additionally, resolution refers to a formal decision or statement, like when a group votes on something. A city council might pass a resolution to create a new park. On New Year's Day, people make resolutions: promises to themselves about changes they want to make, like reading more books or learning to play an instrument. These resolutions require determination (the first meaning!) to actually keep.