Workaround Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⚙️

Add to dictionary

workaround

[ˈwɜːrkəˌraʊnd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in technology

A solution or method used to overcome a problem or limitation in a system or software.

Synonyms

fix, hack, patch, solution.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
workaround	Used when finding a temporary or alternative way to overcome a problem or limitation, especially when expecting a better solution later. We found a workaround to bypass the software bug This workaround will help us continue working until a permanent fix is available
solution	A general term for resolving a problem or addressing an issue. It is often used in formal, comprehensive, or long-term contexts. We need a solution to improve our network performance Their proposal provided a sustainable solution to reduce energy consumption
fix	Refers to a definitive solution to a problem or error, implying that the issue has been resolved completely. The developer issued a fix for the crashing issue in the app After implementing the fix, the software worked smoothly
hack	Indicates a quick, clever solution that might not be the most elegant or proper way to resolve an issue. It can have negative connotations if it suggests a lack of thoroughness or proper methodology. He used a hack to get the program running on the outdated system While the hack worked, it might cause future problems
patch	Typically used in software development to describe a piece of code designed to update or improve an existing software application or its data. It can be a temporary or permanent solution. The company released a patch to fix the security vulnerability After applying the patch, the system was more secure

Examples of usage

Developers often use workarounds to bypass bugs in the code.
The team implemented a clever workaround to improve the performance of the application.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in a professional setting

To find a way to overcome a problem or limitation, typically in a creative or unconventional manner.

Synonyms

address, cope, manage, solve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
workaround	Suitable when looking for a temporary or unconventional solution to bypass an obstacle without directly addressing the root cause. The printer is broken, but we found a workaround by sending documents to another machine. There's a glitch in the software, but creating a new user profile serves as a workaround.
solve	Suitable when referring to finding a definitive solution to a problem, often implying a successful outcome. The detective worked tirelessly to solve the mystery. We need to solve this issue before it escalates.
address	Appropriate when dealing directly with a problem or issue, often in a formal or structured manner. The company needs to address the customer complaints to improve satisfaction. She addressed the issues with her team during the meeting.
manage	Best used when referring to handling, controlling, or organizing tasks, situations, or people effectively. She manages a team of 10 engineers at the company. He finds it challenging to manage his time between work and family.
cope	Used in situations where one needs to deal with difficult circumstances or stress, often implying ongoing effort. After the accident, he had to cope with the loss of his job. She finds it hard to cope with the pressure of her new responsibilities.

Examples of usage

She had to workaround the budget constraints to complete the project.
The team workarounded the issue by collaborating with another department.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

In software development, workarounds allow users to continue their tasks while waiting for a bug fix in the system.
Workarounds can also highlight underlying problems, prompting developers to rethink the design or functionality of applications.

Psychology

When faced with unexpected challenges, people often develop creative workarounds as a coping strategy.
This problem-solving approach encourages flexibility and resilience, important traits for personal development.

Business

In corporate settings, workarounds can often indicate inefficiencies in processes that may need to be addressed more sustainably.
Training employees to identify and suggest workarounds can foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Origin of 'workaround'

Main points about word origin

The term 'workaround' was first used in the computing field during the 1980s.
It is a combination of 'work' (to carry out tasks) and 'around' (to avoid an obstruction), creating a sense of navigating issues.

The term 'workaround' originated in the world of computing and technology in the late 20th century. It is derived from the combination of 'work' and 'around', indicating a method to work around a problem or limitation. Over time, the term has been adopted in various fields to describe creative solutions to challenges.