a makeshift solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a makeshift solution" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where a temporary or improvised solution is found to a problem, or when a solution is found that is not ideal but is still workable. For example: "We had to find a makeshift solution to fix the broken printer until we could afford a new one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

This is at best a makeshift solution.

The New York Times

As a makeshift solution, the Zebrette were obliged to cover up some stripes with white tape.

The Guardian - Sport

It's a makeshift solution that barely clears up the problem of the legal system not seeing the children they have raised as their children.

The Guardian

The burn pits began as a makeshift solution in a war zone, and critics say they remained in place long after alternatives, like incinerators, could be used.

The New York Times

Public health officials and researchers from the American University of Beirut have warned that airborne toxin levels have grown exponentially, including a spike in carcinogens, as a result of dump burning – a tactic used by many municipalities as a makeshift solution.

The Guardian

In April 1986, as workers and engineers scrambled to keep the Chernobyl nuclear power plant's molten radioactive uranium from burrowing into the earth — the so-called China syndrome — a Soviet physicist on the scene devised a makeshift solution for containing remnants of the liquefied core.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

They've proven a decent makeshift solution.

TechCrunch

It was the sort of makeshift solution a United manager would employ in the final 20 minutes when a goal was desperately needed.

Independent

While the makeshift solution proposed in this article is by no means optimal, it raises an important open question, which is how to best utilize the side information in the form of an uncompressed image when embedding data into the JPEG compressed form.

EURASIP Journal on Information Security

Pontiac also resisted makeshift solutions, like producing a front-drive GTO with a V-6 engine.

The New York Times

"These are makeshift solutions to an enduring problem".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "makeshift solution", clearly state the problem it addresses and acknowledge its temporary nature to manage expectations.

Common error

Avoid treating a "makeshift solution" as a long-term fix. Clearly communicate that it is temporary and that a more permanent solution should be sought.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a makeshift solution" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a temporary or improvised method used to resolve a problem. Ludwig examples show it's often used when a long-term or ideal fix is unavailable. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66.66%

Tech

16.66%

Science

16.66%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a makeshift solution" is a noun phrase used to describe a temporary or improvised fix. Ludwig's examples illustrate its common usage in news and media contexts, where it conveys resourcefulness and adaptability. While grammatically correct, it's important to remember it suggests an impermanent measure. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and appropriate usage. When using this phrase, make sure to set expectations by acknowledging the temporary nature of the fix. The phrase has multiple alternatives, such as "a temporary workaround" or "an improvised remedy".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an improvised remedy

Focuses on the act of improvising a solution.

a temporary workaround

Highlights the temporary nature and the goal of circumventing an issue.

a stopgap measure

Emphasizes the short-term and interim quality of the solution.

a rough-and-ready fix

Indicates a solution that is functional but not refined.

a quick fix

Highlights the speed and ease of implementation.

an ad hoc resolution

Focuses on a solution created for a specific, immediate need.

a band-aid solution

Implies the solution is superficial and doesn't address the root cause.

a short-term fix

Clearly emphasizes the limited duration of the solution.

a contingency plan

Highlights planning for unexpected events but offering an alternative route to address the original problem when failure of the original problem happens.

a crude remedy

Suggests a basic, unrefined, and potentially imperfect solution.

FAQs

How can I use "a makeshift solution" in a sentence?

You can use "a makeshift solution" to describe a temporary or improvised fix to a problem. For example, "Since we didn't have the proper tools, we came up with "a makeshift solution" to hold the fence together until we could get it professionally repaired."

What can I say instead of "a makeshift solution"?

Alternatives to "a makeshift solution" include "a temporary workaround", "a stopgap measure", or "an improvised remedy", depending on the specific context.

Is it okay to rely on "a makeshift solution" for a long time?

While "a makeshift solution" can be helpful in the short term, it's generally not advisable to rely on it indefinitely. It's best to seek a more permanent and reliable solution when possible.

When is it appropriate to use "a makeshift solution"?

It's appropriate to use "a makeshift solution" when you need a quick fix to address an immediate problem and a better long-term solution isn't readily available. It's important that everyone is aware of the temporary nature of "a makeshift solution".