The term 'IT MAY BE SETTLED' can be solved by the 7-letter word 'LAWSUIT'. A LAWSUIT is a civil action brought before a court of law in which a plaintiff, a party who claims to have incurred loss as a result of a defendant's actions, demands a legal or equitable remedy. The defendant is required to respond to the plaintiff's complaint. If the parties are unable to resolve their dispute, the court will decide the outcome of the case.