reconcile
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈrɛkənˌsaɪl/
KK: /ˈrɛkənˌsaɪl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To make peace or restore friendly relations after a disagreement or conflict; to become consistent or compatible with something.
Example
After a long discussion, they were finally able to reconcile their differences.
Tense Forms
Past: reconciled
Past Participle: reconciled
Conversation
Have you heard that Sarah and Mike finally decided to reconcile?
Really? I thought they were done for good.
Yeah, it surprised me too, but I think they realized they still care about each other.
That's great! Sometimes it's hard to let go of those feelings.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
harmonize
settle
resolve
Antonyms
disagree
conflict
separate
transitive verb
Definition
To make two or more things compatible or to restore a friendly relationship after a disagreement.
Example
They decided to reconcile their differences and work together.
Tense Forms
Past: reconciled
Past Participle: reconciled
Conversation
I think it's time we should reconcile after our argument last week.
Yeah, I really miss hanging out with you.
I agree, but we need to talk about what happened first.
Root Explanation
Reconcile is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "conciliare" (meaning to bring together or unite). The word describes the act of bringing together again, especially after a disagreement or conflict.
Memory Tip
Think of bringing things 'together again' — 're-' means again, and 'conciliare' means to unite.
Visually Confused Words
irreconcile
concile
unreconciled
prereconcile
preconclude