Unsolved: meaning, definitions and examples

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unsolved

 

[ ʌnˈsɒlvd ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

problem status

The term 'unsolved' refers to issues, mysteries, or problems that have yet to be resolved or explained. It can apply to a range of contexts, including criminal investigations, mathematical equations, or personal disputes. The word emphasizes the lack of closure or understanding regarding a particular situation, indicating that it remains open for exploration or resolution. Unsolved cases often capture public interest, particularly in criminal justice where they evoke curiosity and concern regarding the implications of unresolved crimes.

Synonyms

inconclusive, indeterminate, open, unresolved

Examples of usage

  • The unsolved mystery intrigued the detective.
  • Many unsolved problems in science continue to challenge researchers.
  • The unsolved case from the 1980s still haunts the community.

Translations

Translations of the word "unsolved" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não resolvido

🇮🇳 असमाधानित

🇩🇪 nicht gelöst

🇮🇩 belum terpecahkan

🇺🇦 нерозв'язаний

🇵🇱 nierozwiązany

🇯🇵 未解決の

🇫🇷 non résolu

🇪🇸 no resuelto

🇹🇷 çözülemeyen

🇰🇷 미해결의

🇸🇦 غير المحلولة

🇨🇿 nevyřešený

🇸🇰 nevyriešený

🇨🇳 未解决的

🇸🇮 nerešen

🇮🇸 óleyst

🇰🇿 шешілмеген

🇬🇪 არასაწვდილი

🇦🇿 həll olunmamış

🇲🇽 no resuelto

Word origin

The word 'unsolved' is derived from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the verb 'solve', which has its roots in the Latin word 'solvere', meaning 'to loosen, to release, or to free'. The concept of solving has existed for centuries, originating from activities such as puzzles and problems in mathematics and philosophy. In English, 'solve' has been used since the early 14th century, while 'unsolved' began to gain prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in relation to criminal investigations and scientific inquiries. This evolution reflects society's enduring fascination with mysteries and the human inclination towards finding answers to complex questions. The combination of 'un-' and 'solve' captures the essence of unresolved issues in various fields, marking a descriptive term that resonates within the realms of mystery, inquiry, and investigation.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,901, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.