Troubleshoot: meaning, definitions and examples

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troubleshoot

 

[ ˈtruː.bəl.ʃuːt ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

computer

Find and solve problems with a computer or other electronic device.

Synonyms

debug, diagnose, fix, resolve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
troubleshoot

Used when identifying and solving problems, usually related to technical issues or machinery. Often implies a step-by-step process to identify the root cause.

  • The technician will troubleshoot the computer to find out why it's not working
  • Before calling support, try to troubleshoot the issue yourself
debug

Specifically used in the context of computer programming and software development. Refers to finding and fixing bugs or errors in code.

  • The developer spent the entire afternoon debugging the new application
  • We need to debug the program to ensure it runs smoothly
fix

A general term used in any context where a problem needs to be corrected or mended.

  • I need to fix the leaky faucet
  • Can you fix this broken chair?
resolve

Usually used in more formal contexts, often referring to settling disputes or complex issues. It can also mean solving a problem or finding a solution.

  • We need to resolve this conflict peacefully
  • The IT team will resolve the network issues by tomorrow
diagnose

Used in both medical and technical contexts to identify the cause of a problem or condition. Often implies a deeper analysis.

  • The doctor will diagnose the patient's illness
  • The mechanic needs to diagnose the issue with the car engine

Examples of usage

  • I need to troubleshoot my laptop because it keeps freezing.
  • The IT department is troubleshooting the network issue.
Context #2 | Noun

general

The process of identifying and solving problems in a system or machine.

Synonyms

debugging, fault-finding, problem-solving.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
troubleshoot

Typically used in technical or mechanical situations where identifying and resolving specific issues in systems or devices is necessary.

  • The IT team was called to troubleshoot the server issues.
  • She was able to troubleshoot the printer's connectivity problem quickly.
problem-solving

Broadly applicable to any situation where arriving at a solution to a challenge or issue is required, ranging from everyday tasks to complex professional scenarios.

  • His problem-solving skills helped the team meet the project deadline.
  • Effective problem-solving is crucial in customer service roles.
debugging

Specifically associated with identifying and fixing errors in computer programs or software development processes.

  • He spent the afternoon debugging the new software application.
  • Debugging the code revealed multiple errors that needed correction.
fault-finding

Often used to describe the process of locating sources of faults or issues, generally in technical fields like engineering or IT, but can also imply a negative, critical behavior when used in interpersonal contexts.

  • The engineer's job involved fault-finding in complex machinery.
  • Her constant fault-finding made it difficult to work with her on the project.

Examples of usage

  • The troubleshoot of the new software revealed several bugs.
  • He has a talent for troubleshooting complex technical issues.

Translations

Translations of the word "troubleshoot" in other languages:

🇵🇹 solucionar problemas

🇮🇳 समस्या निवारण करना

🇩🇪 Fehlersuche

🇮🇩 memecahkan masalah

🇺🇦 усунення неполадок

🇵🇱 rozwiązywać problemy

🇯🇵 トラブルシュート

🇫🇷 dépanner

🇪🇸 solucionar problemas

🇹🇷 sorun gidermek

🇰🇷 문제 해결

🇸🇦 استكشاف الأخطاء وإصلاحها

🇨🇿 odstraňování problémů

🇸🇰 odstraňovanie problémov

🇨🇳 排除故障

🇸🇮 odpravljanje težav

🇮🇸 villa greining

🇰🇿 ақауларды жою

🇬🇪 პრობლემების გადაჭრა

🇦🇿 problemləri həll etmək

🇲🇽 solucionar problemas

Etymology

The term 'troubleshoot' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'trouble' and 'shoot.' It originally referred to the act of shooting game birds that were causing trouble for farmers. Over time, the term evolved to describe the process of identifying and solving problems in mechanical or technical systems. The modern usage of 'troubleshoot' in the context of computer technology became popular in the mid-20th century with the rise of electronics and digital devices.

See also: troubled, troublemaker, troubles, troubleshooter, troubleshooting, troublesome, troubling, untroubled.