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solution

answer

/səˈl(j)uːʃən/

[C/U] Both

In a logical or pragmatic sense, this term refers to the resolution of a conflict or the removal of an obstacle. It suggests a transition from a state of tension or confusion to one of clarity and stability, often implying that a specific strategy was successfully applied to reach a goal. In a chemical sense, the term describes a homogeneous mixture where a solute is completely dispersed within a solvent. This physical process of dissolution mirrors the conceptual process of solving a problem, as both involve breaking down a complex or solid state into a more manageable or integrated form.

Countable as a result (a solution). Uncountable as a chemical mixture.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Maya is at her desk while Jackson is lounging on a couch.
Jackson

Found the ultimate solution for your burnout. Just pivot to DeFi.

Jackson
Maya
Maya

Get a grip, Jackson. I'm not falling for another one of your scams.

💡
Jackson uses 'solution' in the context of solving a life problem (burnout) with a typical crypto-bro pitch. Maya responds with the idiom 'get a grip', meaning to regain self-control or be realistic, highlighting her lack of patience for his behavior.

Meanings

Nounanswer

A means of solving a problem or dealing with a difficult situation.

"The new software provides an elegant solution to the data synchronization problem."

Examples

I think we finally found a solution to this mess.

Look, just give me a solution before the boss arrives!

Is there a solution for this leaking pipe, or what?

The chemist prepared a saline solution for the experiment.

Wait, is this solution supposed to be this bright purple?

I spent three hours trying to find the solution to it.

God, I just can't find the solution to this riddle!

Tell me the solution now or I am leaving!

We need a permanent solution for the staffing shortage.

Collocations & Compounds

elegant solution

a clever and simple way to solve a complex problem

The mathematician proposed an elegant solution to the theorem.

permanent solution

a fix that resolves a problem indefinitely

Replacing the old pipes is the only permanent solution to the leaks.

viable solution

a practical and workable answer to a problem

The committee is searching for a viable solution to the budget deficit.

optimal solution

the best possible answer among all alternatives

We used an algorithm to find the optimal solution for the delivery route.

long-term solution

a strategy that solves a problem over a long period

Investing in education is a long-term solution to poverty.

Idioms & Sayings

the only solution

the sole possible way to resolve a problem

After reviewing all the options, we realized that upgrading the hardware was the only solution.

a quick solution

a fast but potentially superficial fix

Applying a patch was a quick solution, but we need a permanent fix for the bug.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'solutio' ('a loosening, dissolving'), from the verb 'solvere' ('to loosen, untie, solve'), which is composed of 'se-' ('apart') and 'solvere' ('loosen'). It entered Middle English via Old French 'solution'.

Related Words

Last Updated: June 8, 2026Report an Error