a clear-cut solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear-cut solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a straightforward and unambiguous answer to a problem or issue. Example: "After much deliberation, the committee finally arrived at a clear-cut solution to the ongoing dispute."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"I don't think there is a clear-cut solution for the Israeli-Arab conflict in this generation".

The New Yorker

"I do not have a clear-cut solution," he concedes, before reverting to the old argument that "Jordan is Palestine".

The Economist

No matter how clear things might become in the forest of story, there was never a clear-cut solution, as there was in math.

The New Yorker

When eco-friendly concerns become fractured and some fight for access to healthy food while others protest a vital access to clean water, it's hard to identify a clear-cut solution.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

At bottom, the Massachusetts plan and others like it is more of a nudge than a clear-cut solution.

Forbes

A clear-cut solution at the physical layer would be the maximization of the bit rate in conjunction with the minimization of the transmission errors.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

However, golf commentator Maureen Madill told BBC Radio Ulster that it was not a clear cut solution as during his earlier career, McIlroy had represented both countries.

BBC

There's unlikely to be a clear-cut answer.

Science Magazine

Data to provide a clear-cut answer are missing.

Plosone

Geena Davis, the actress who inspired a generation of young women to dream of being baseball stars and the founder of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, has a pretty clear-cut solution to the lack of women in Hollywood films.

Huffington Post

"I thought it had to become impossible to give a fast, easy, clear-cut solution, because no solution of this sort could accord with the reality," he wrote in his 1989 autobiography, "Warrior".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a clear-cut solution", ensure that the context genuinely reflects a solution that is straightforward and leaves no room for ambiguity. Overusing it for complex issues can undermine your credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "a clear-cut solution" when addressing multifaceted problems with no easy answers. This phrase is best reserved for situations where the resolution is undeniably straightforward and simple.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear-cut solution" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, typically referring to a problem or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It indicates a solution that is straightforward, unambiguous, and easily understood.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clear-cut solution" is a phrase used to describe a straightforward and unambiguous answer to a problem. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is grammatically correct. While relatively uncommon, it appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, and less so in more informal settings. The key is to ensure the context warrants such a simple and direct resolution. Using it when the issue is more nuanced could undermine the writer's credibility. Related phrases include "a straightforward answer" or "a definitive resolution". Remember, context is king.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a straightforward answer

Emphasizes the directness and simplicity of the solution.

a definitive resolution

Highlights the conclusiveness and finality of the solution.

an unambiguous remedy

Focuses on the clarity and effectiveness of the solution as a means of fixing a problem.

a simple fix

Underscores the ease and lack of complexity in the solution.

a decisive measure

Highlights the impactful nature and resoluteness of the solution.

a conclusive answer

Focuses on how the solution is final and resolves the issue.

a readily apparent solution

Highlights the obviousness and ease of recognizing the solution.

an evident resolution

Similar to 'readily apparent', emphasizing ease of recognition.

a black and white answer

Emphasizes the solution being absolute and without gray areas.

a no brainer solution

Highlights the obviousness and ease of understanding the solution.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear-cut solution" in a sentence?

You can use "a clear-cut solution" when referring to a straightforward and unambiguous answer to a problem. For example: "After much deliberation, the committee finally arrived at a clear-cut solution to the ongoing dispute."

What are some alternatives to "a clear-cut solution"?

You can use alternatives like "a straightforward answer", "a definitive resolution", or "an unambiguous remedy" depending on the context.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "a clear-cut solution"?

It's inappropriate to use "a clear-cut solution" when addressing complex issues that involve multiple factors and uncertainties. This phrase is best suited for problems with simple, easily implementable resolutions.

Is "clear cut solution" or "clear-cut solution" grammatically correct?

"Clear-cut solution" is the grammatically correct form. The hyphenated form indicates that "clear-cut" functions as a compound adjective modifying "solution".