solution
- 01 A2 Elementary
a way of solving a problem or dealing with a difficult situation.
a means of resolving a problem or addressing a challenging situation.
Simple“The government is looking for a long-term solution to the housing crisis.”
In context“The management team spent weeks debating a viable solution to the supply chain disruptions that had plagued the company all quarter.”
UsageCommonly followed by the preposition 'to'.
PitfallThe solution of the problem was simple. The solution to the problem was simple.Use the preposition 'to' after solution when referring to a problem or puzzle.
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 A2 Elementary
the correct answer to a puzzle, test, or mathematical question.
the result or explanation that answers a specific question, puzzle, or mathematical equation.
Simple“I checked the back of the book to see the solution to the crossword.”
In context“The professor demonstrated that the solution to the differential equation required a sophisticated understanding of calculus.”
- 03 B1 Intermediate
a liquid in which something else has been dissolved.
a homogeneous mixture composed of two or more substances, typically a solute dissolved in a solvent.
Simple“You should clean the wound with a mild salt solution.”
In context“The chemist prepared a saturated solution of copper sulfate to observe the growth of crystals over several days.”
UsageOften used with adjectives like 'dilute', 'concentrated', or 'aqueous'.
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
a product or service sold to a company to help them do business.
a specific product, service, or integrated suite of software designed to meet a business requirement.
Simple“Our company provides software solutions for small businesses.”
In context“The consultant proposed an end-to-end digital solution to streamline the firm's accounting and payroll processes.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is very common in corporate marketing and IT, often used as a more impressive word for 'product'.
Usage solution to the problem · solution to environmental · alternative solution
From Middle English solucioun, from Old French solucion (French solution), from Latin solūtiōnem, accusative singular of solūtiō, from the verb solvō. Compare solve, -tion.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.