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Solution: meaning, definitions and examples

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solution

 

[səˈluːʃn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

A solution is a value or set of values that satisfy an equation or inequality, making it true when substituted into the equation.

Synonyms

answer, resolution, result.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
solution

When referring to a way to solve a problem or fix an issue. Often used in contexts involving problem-solving, scientific methods, and technical situations.

  • We need to find a solution to this problem quickly.
  • The solution to the math equation was quite complicated.
answer

Appropriate when replying to a question, or providing a response in conversational contexts. Common in educational settings, quizzes, and exams.

  • She knew the answer to every question on the test.
  • What is the answer to the question about the capital of France?
resolution

Used in contexts where an issue or conflict is being resolved, often implying a formal or determined decision. Common in legal, formal, and technical discussions.

  • The resolution of the dispute took several months.
  • During the meeting, they reached a resolution on the budget cuts.
result

When discussing the outcome or consequence of an action, test, or experiment. Useful in scientific, technical, academic, and everyday scenarios.

  • The results of the experiment were surprising.
  • She waited anxiously for the test results.

Examples of usage

  • The solution to the equation x + 2 = 5 is x = 3.
  • She found a solution to the system of equations by graphing.
Context #2 | Noun

problem-solving

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

Synonyms

answer, fix, resolution.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
solution

Typically used when talking about solving a problem or dealing with a challenging situation. It is a general term.

  • We need a solution to reduce our monthly expenses
  • She proposed a solution to improve the team’s efficiency
answer

Often used when responding to a question, puzzle, or inquiry. It usually refers to a direct response.

  • I don't know the answer to his question
  • Can you find the answer to this math problem?
fix

Used informally to describe repairing something broken or correcting a mistake. It implies a quick or temporary resolution.

  • I'll fix the leaky faucet this weekend
  • We need to fix the error in the document before sending it
resolution

Often used to describe formal decisions or determinations, especially in a corporate or legal setting. It can also refer to a commitment to solve a problem or accomplish a goal.

  • The board passed a resolution to increase the budget
  • His New Year's resolution is to read more books

Examples of usage

  • Their compromise was a solution to the conflict.
  • The best solution to this issue is to communicate openly.
Context #3 | Noun

liquid mixture

In chemistry, a solution is a homogeneous mixture composed of two or more substances.

Synonyms

blend, compound, mixture.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
solution

Use when referring to a liquid mixture where a solute has dissolved in a solvent, often in scientific or everyday contexts.

  • We finally found a solution to the math problem.
  • She prepared a salt solution for the experiment.
mixture

Used to describe a combination of different substances that do not chemically combine, applicable in both scientific and everyday contexts.

  • The salad was a mixture of various fresh vegetables.
  • Air is a mixture of gases.
blend

Appropriate for describing things mixed together smoothly, often used in culinary, artistic, or industrial contexts.

  • The recipe requires a blend of spices to achieve the perfect flavor.
  • The artist created a perfect blend of colors.
compound

Refers to a substance consisting of two or more elements chemically combined, commonly used in scientific contexts.

  • Water is a compound made of hydrogen and oxygen.
  • The scientist studied the properties of the new chemical compound.

Examples of usage

  • The sugar dissolved in water to form a solution.
  • This solution has a concentration of 10% salt.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Latin 'solutio', meaning to loosen or free, which reflects the idea of solving or untangling.
  • The prefix 'sol-' relates to solutions involving bringing things apart or separating to clarify.
  • In Middle English, it evolved from the meaning of dissolving substances to a broader sense of providing answers or fixes.

Science

  • In chemistry, a solution is a mixture where one substance is evenly distributed within another, like salt water.
  • The study of solutions helps in understanding how substances interact, which is crucial for developing medicines.
  • Solutions can be concentrated (more solute) or dilute (less solute), impacting their physical and chemical properties.

Problem-Solving

  • Effective problem-solving often involves identifying the problem, brainstorming possible solutions, and implementing the best one.
  • The word is commonly used in mathematics, where a solution refers to the answer to an equation or problem.
  • In business, finding a solution often requires innovation and collaboration among team members to address challenges.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase ‘solution-oriented’ is popular in self-help and motivational contexts, promoting a positive mindset.
  • Movies and books often revolve around a central problem, with characters seeking a solution, which drives the plot.
  • Puzzle games and mystery shows heavily depict the journey of discovering solutions, engaging viewers in critical thinking.

Psychology

  • Cognitive psychology highlights the importance of finding solutions in decision-making processes and challenges.
  • People often experience emotional responses when facing complex problems, making the search for solutions both practical and impactful.
  • The act of problem-solving is linked to creativity, requiring different thinking styles to achieve successful solutions.

Translations

Translations of the word "solution" in other languages:

🇵🇹 solução

🇮🇳 समाधान

🇩🇪 Lösung

🇮🇩 solusi

🇺🇦 рішення

🇵🇱 rozwiązanie

🇯🇵 解決 (かいけつ)

🇫🇷 solution

🇪🇸 solución

🇹🇷 çözüm

🇰🇷 해결 (haegyeol)

🇸🇦 حل

🇨🇿 řešení

🇸🇰 riešenie

🇨🇳 解决方案 (jiějué fāng'àn)

🇸🇮 rešitev

🇮🇸 lausn

🇰🇿 шешім

🇬🇪 გადაწყვეტილება

🇦🇿 həll

🇲🇽 solución

Word Frequency Rank

At #580 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.