The phrasal verb 'settle for' is predominantly used in informal rather than formal speech, often conveying a sense of compromise or accepting something less satisfactory than desired. It is widely utilized across various contexts where an individual or group must make a decision to accept a lesser option due to limitations or unavailability of better choices. Commonly, 'settle for' may appear in personal decisions, such as everyday discussions about choosing meals or making shopping choices, as well as in broader contexts like negotiations or career opportunities. It often implies settling or resigning oneself to a situation, reflecting a slight degree of reluctance or dissatisfaction. Despite its frequent appearance in informal speech, it can occasionally be encountered in more formal discussions where the need to accept a non-ideal outcome arises.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To accept or agree to something that is not ideal or not what you really want, usually because there are no better options available.
I wanted a larger apartment, but I had to settle for a small studio.
She was hoping for a promotion, but settled for a salary increase instead.