a mutually satisfactory solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a mutually satisfactory solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where two or more parties are seeking a resolution that is acceptable to all involved. Example: "After several rounds of negotiation, we finally reached a mutually satisfactory solution that benefited both sides."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The Invitation is where child and adult are working toward a mutually satisfactory solution, one that addresses the concerns of both parties.

The Washington Post

As it turned out, the general manager held prolonged negotiations with a peer in the pooled sales force to arrive at a mutually satisfactory solution, but this made the general manager appear inconclusive and indecisive to his subordinates.

Harvard Business Review

With mediation, the parties are in a more informal setting, and with the assistance of the mediator, they try to negotiate what will work best and agree on a mutually satisfactory solution.

The New York Times

They next go into the courts and put liens on the assets, in the hope of bringing the borrower to the negotiation table for a mutually satisfactory solution.

Forbes

Based on the hierarchical interconnection of the two game models, control decisions can cause cascade interactions to reach a mutually satisfactory solution.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Agile software development (accommodating uncertainty and change iteratively) KEYS: Stepwise shaping following customer feedback to converge for a mutually satisfactory solution Example: developing new type of application User-experience driven; Example: Measure user retention and service usage and develop or pivot accordingly.

European Journal of Futures Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Sarah Davies, senior vice president for research and analytics for VantageScore Solutions, said in an interview that her company won't likely modify its scoring algorithms either, even if the seller was not delinquent and came to a mutually satisfactory resolution with the lender.

The Washington Post

Gretchen Hamel, a spokeswoman for the United States trade representative in Washington, said that the office would continue to try to find a mutually satisfactory resolution to the dispute.

The New York Times

He has previously denied violating election laws, and a person involved with his defense said the defense expected a "mutually satisfactory" resolution of the misdemeanor charges.

The New York Times

In a company statement, Richard C. Adkerson, the chief executive of Freeport, said he was pleased the parties had reached "a mutually satisfactory resolution".

The New York Times

If you are unable to reach a mutually satisfactory resolution with the instructor informally, you may pursue a formal grievance process.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for "a mutually satisfactory solution", ensure all parties have a clear understanding of the goals and potential trade-offs. Active listening is key to identifying common ground and addressing concerns effectively.

Common error

Avoid presenting a solution as "mutually satisfactory" without genuine input or agreement from all parties involved. Unilateral declarations can breed resentment and undermine the perceived fairness of the process.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a mutually satisfactory solution" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb (e.g., reach, find, achieve) or as a complement to a preposition (e.g., towards, for). Ludwig AI confirms its standard usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

22%

Science

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a mutually satisfactory solution" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe an outcome where all involved parties reach an agreement that meets their needs. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, the phrase is most frequently found in news articles, academic papers, and scientific publications, indicating its suitability for neutral and professional contexts. When aiming for such a solution, remember to prioritize open communication and a willingness to compromise. Common errors include assuming satisfaction without genuine agreement. Consider using alternative phrases like "an agreeable resolution" or "a win-win scenario" to diversify your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an agreeable resolution

This alternative uses simpler language to convey the same meaning.

a mutually acceptable outcome

Replaces "solution" with "outcome", emphasizing the result of a process.

a win-win scenario

This phrase highlights the benefit to all parties involved, framing it as a positive situation.

a compromise agreeable to all

Emphasizes the element of compromise and broad agreement.

a resolution satisfactory to both parties

This version is more formal and explicitly mentions the involved parties.

an equitable settlement

Focuses on fairness and justice in the resolution.

a consensus-based resolution

Highlights the agreement being built on consensus.

a harmonious agreement

Stresses the peace and lack of conflict in the outcome.

a cooperative arrangement

Emphasizes the collaborative nature of reaching the solution.

a quid pro quo

This implies an exchange where each party gives something to get something, leading to satisfaction for all sides.

FAQs

How can "a mutually satisfactory solution" be achieved in negotiations?

Achieving "a mutually satisfactory solution" requires open communication, a willingness to compromise, and a focus on the underlying interests of all parties involved. Techniques like active listening and brainstorming can help identify common ground and creative options.

What are some alternatives to saying "a mutually satisfactory solution"?

You can use alternatives like "an agreeable resolution", "a mutually acceptable outcome", or "a win-win scenario" depending on the context.

What does it mean for a solution to be "mutually satisfactory"?

A "mutually satisfactory solution" means that all parties involved in a negotiation or dispute have reached an agreement that addresses their key concerns and provides them with an acceptable outcome. It doesn't necessarily mean everyone gets everything they want, but that all are content with the result.

Is "mutually satisfactory solution" a formal or informal phrase?

The phrase "mutually satisfactory solution" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. While it's commonly used in business and legal settings, it can also be used in everyday conversations to describe a compromise or agreement.