Resolute comes from the same Latin verb as resolved, and the two words are often synonyms. So how did it get this meaning from the Latin? Essentially, when you resolve a question or problem, you come to a conclusion, and once you've reached a conclusion you can proceed to act. So in your New Year's resolutions, you resolve—or make up your mind—to do something. Unfortunately, New Year's resolutions aren't a good illustration of the meaning of resolute, since only about one in ten actually seems to succeed.
faithful implies unswerving adherence to a person or thing or to the oath or promise by which a tie was contracted.
faithful to her promise
loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.
remained loyal to the czar
constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.
constant friends
staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it.
a staunch defender of free speech
steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.
steadfast in their support
resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.
a resolute ally
Examples of resolute in a Sentence
Adjective
She is a resolute competitor.
He has remained resolute in his opposition to the bill.
a leader with a stern and resolute manner
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Adjective
The closest thing that comes to mind is probably Terrence Malick’s The Tree of Life, although this is Malick by way of Jane Campion and Michael Haneke, shifting between fleeting coming-of-age moments and scenes of resolute darkness and human cruelty.—Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 14 May 2025 It was never sold in the U.S. thanks to the unwavering objections of a resolute reviewer at the FDA named Frances Oldham Kelsey.—David Armstrong, CNN Money, 10 May 2025 While China has been resolute in opposing American economic pressures, imposing retaliatory tariffs of its own on American goods alongside export controls on rare earths, rhetoric between the two nations has softened in recent days.—Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Apr. 2025 His impassioned speeches, sharp intellect and militant stance on Black empowerment offered a resolute counterpoint to the integrationist messages of the era.—Sughnen Yongo, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for resolute
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