Solution: meaning, definitions and examples

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solution

 

[ səˈluːʃn ]

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.

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

Etymology

The word 'solution' comes from the Latin word 'solutio', meaning a loosening or unbinding. It was first used in the context of chemistry in the 16th century to refer to a liquid mixture. Over time, the term evolved to also describe answers to mathematical equations and ways to solve problems.

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.