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Solve: meaning, definitions and examples

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solve

 

[ sɒlv ]

Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Verb

mathematics

To find a solution or explanation for a problem or question.

Synonyms

answer, determine, resolve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
solve

Use when referring to finding a solution to a problem, puzzle, or equation.

  • She was able to solve the math problem quickly.
  • They need to solve the mystery of the missing cat.
resolve

Use when coming to a firm decision or finding a solution, often for conflicts or disputes.

  • They need to resolve their differences before moving forward.
  • The manager helped to resolve the issue between the two employees.
determine

Use when needing to establish or conclude something after careful thought or research.

  • The investigation will determine the cause of the fire.
  • She needs to determine the best route to take.
answer

Use when providing a response or reply to a question or request.

  • Please answer the phone when it rings.
  • He didn't know the answer to the teacher’s question.

Examples of usage

  • Can you help me solve this equation?
  • She was able to solve the puzzle in no time.

Translations

Translations of the word "solve" in other languages:

🇵🇹 resolver

🇮🇳 सुलझाना

🇩🇪 lösen

🇮🇩 menyelesaikan

🇺🇦 вирішити

🇵🇱 rozwiązać

🇯🇵 解決する (kaiketsu suru)

🇫🇷 résoudre

🇪🇸 resolver

🇹🇷 çözmek

🇰🇷 해결하다 (haegyeolhada)

🇸🇦 حلّ (ḥall)

🇨🇿 vyřešit

🇸🇰 vyriešiť

🇨🇳 解决 (jiějué)

🇸🇮 rešiti

🇮🇸 leysa

🇰🇿 шешу

🇬🇪 გადაწყვეტა (gadats'q'veta)

🇦🇿 həll etmək

🇲🇽 resolver

Etymology

The word 'solve' originated from the Latin word 'solvere', which means 'to loosen, release, or solve'. The term was first used in English in the 15th century. Over the years, 'solve' has been commonly used in mathematics and problem-solving contexts to refer to finding solutions or explanations.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,378, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.