Solvable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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solvable

[ˈsɒlvəbəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

mathematics

Capable of being solved or explained; admitting of solution or explanation; as, a solvable problem; a solvable riddle; a solvable mystery.

Synonyms

decipherable, explainable, resolvable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
solvable

Use 'solvable' when talking about a problem or issue that can be successfully figured out or fixed, especially when it involves effort or skill.

  • The math problem seemed difficult at first, but it was definitely solvable.
  • Most conflicts between friends are solvable with good communication.
resolvable

Use 'resolvable' for situations or disputes that can be settled or resolved, often with a focus on conflict resolution.

  • The contract dispute between the two companies is resolvable through negotiation.
  • Many workplace conflicts are resolvable with proper mediation.
decipherable

Use 'decipherable' when referring to something that can be decoded, interpreted, or understood, especially when it is initially confusing or hidden.

  • The ancient manuscript was barely decipherable to the modern scholar.
  • Her handwriting was messy, but still decipherable.
explainable

Use 'explainable' when something can be made clear or understandable through explanation, often referring to phenomena, behavior, or outcomes.

  • The strange noise in the house was easily explainable once we found the source.
  • His unusual behavior is explainable when you consider his recent stress.

Examples of usage

  • The solvable equation was quickly solved by the mathematician.
  • The puzzle turned out to be solvable after all.
Context #2 | Adjective

general

Able to be resolved or settled; capable of being dealt with or solved.

Synonyms

addressable, fixable, manageable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
solvable

Used when referring to problems or issues that have a clear solution or can be definitively resolved.

  • The equation is solvable with basic algebra.
  • We believe that climate change is a solvable problem if we act now.
fixable

Used when referring to something broken or malfunctioning that can be repaired or mended, often in a more informal or everyday context.

  • The leaky faucet is fixable with a simple wrench.
  • Don't worry, your car is fixable; it just needs a new part.
manageable

Used when referring to tasks or situations that can be controlled or handled without too much difficulty, often implying some level of simplicity or feasibility.

  • Even with his busy schedule, he finds his workload manageable.
  • The small size of the project makes it manageable within the given timeframe.
addressable

Used when referring to problems, issues, or tasks that can be dealt with or managed, often used in a professional or formal context.

  • The security vulnerabilities in the system are addressable with the latest software update.
  • Customer complaints are addressable through improved service training.

Examples of usage

  • The conflict between the two parties was solvable through mediation.
  • The issue at hand is solvable with proper communication.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In mathematics, 'solvable' refers to equations that have one or more solutions.
  • In physics, certain problems, like calculating the trajectory of an object, are solvable with the right formulas.
  • In computer science, algorithms aim to determine whether complex problems are solvable with computing resources.

Psychology

  • People's belief in their ability to solve problems can influence their mental well-being, known as 'self-efficacy'.
  • Research shows that viewing challenges as solvable promotes resilience and coping skills.
  • The brain often uses prior experiences with solvable problems to tackle new challenges.

Literature

  • In many mystery novels, the tension builds around whether a conflict is solvable by the protagonist's efforts.
  • Authors such as Agatha Christie often create intricate plots that seem unsolvable until the final reveal.
  • The theme of searching for solutions is prevalent in both fiction and non-fiction writing throughout history.

Education

  • Teaching students that problems can be solvable encourages critical thinking and innovation.
  • Mathematics is often framed around solvable problems to develop students' analytical skills.
  • Group work in classrooms often involves solving challenges collaboratively, reinforcing the idea that problems can be tackled together.

Origin of 'solvable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'solvable' comes from the Latin 'solvere', which means 'to loosen or free'.
  • It builds on the root 'solve', which relates to finding solutions.
  • The suffix '-able' indicates that something can be done, so 'solvable' literally means 'able to be solved'.

The word 'solvable' originates from the verb 'solve', which comes from the Latin 'solvere' meaning 'to loosen, release, solve'. The concept of solvability has been integral to various fields such as mathematics, puzzles, and conflict resolution. The adjective 'solvable' emphasizes the possibility of finding a solution or explanation to a given problem or situation.


See also: absolve, dissolve, dissolvent, insolvency, insolvent, solvability, solvent, solver, solving, unsolvable.