a piecemeal solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a piecemeal solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a solution that is implemented in stages or parts rather than all at once, often implying that the solution is incomplete or not fully effective. Example: "The government implemented a piecemeal solution to the housing crisis, addressing only certain areas while neglecting others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"It was a piecemeal solution," said Henry J. Stern, the parks commissioner.

The New York Times

"That's why the industry is interested in a unified national solution," he said, "not a piecemeal solution, like this is".

The New York Times

Johnson thinks that the government will adopt a "piecemeal" solution the airport capacity problem in the south of England.

The Guardian

It is a piecemeal solution, covering a tiny percentage of hospitals that need it — and a temporary reprieve even for the hospitals that are reached.

The New York Times

With just 14 employees, his small company is at the mercy of venture capitalists who are loathe to back any enterprise that lacks long-term stability; the PTC, he said, has never been more than a piecemeal solution.

The Guardian

Though desirable, limited resources normally prevent these programs from being implemented, and only a piecemeal solution tend to be possible.

City, Territory and Architecture

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

The euro zone may find another piecemeal solution and escape the hangman for now, but unless it attacks its more fundamental problems, it is doomed to a cascading series of crises that will ultimately destroy the common currency.

The New York Times

Claire Spencer, of the Chatham House thinktank in London, commented: "Addressing the chemical weapons issue is only part of the challenge, and until and unless the collective security of the Syrian people is put at the centre of collective diplomatic energies, no piecemeal solution will address or resolve the underlying conditions for the restoration of peace.

The Guardian

Each piecemeal solution requires converting and moving the original business data to other platforms.

Forbes

A BBC that offers piecemeal solutions will fail to meet the demands or restore the trust of Scottish audiences".

The Guardian

We do not want piecemeal solutions but a serious commitment to reform and the end of corruption".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a piecemeal solution" when you want to convey that a problem is being addressed in stages, often implying that the overall approach lacks a cohesive strategy. Be mindful that this can suggest the solution is inadequate or incomplete.

Common error

While often carrying a negative connotation, "a piecemeal solution" isn't inherently bad. Sometimes, it's the only feasible approach due to resource constraints or the complexity of the problem. Consider whether a more comprehensive approach is truly possible before criticizing the use of a staged strategy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a piecemeal solution" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "piecemeal" modifies the noun "solution". Ludwig AI confirms its use in describing strategies that address problems incrementally.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a piecemeal solution" is a noun phrase used to describe a fragmented or incremental approach to solving a problem. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news and media contexts. While the phrase often carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of comprehensive planning, it can also be used neutrally to describe a phased approach that is the most pragmatic given the constraints. When writing, be aware of the implications of using this phrase, and consider alternatives like "a fragmented solution" or "an incremental solution" to achieve the desired tone. Be aware that the phrase is not always negative, in fact it depends on the circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fragmented solution

Emphasizes the disjointed and unconnected nature of the solution's components.

an incremental solution

Highlights the step-by-step approach to resolving the problem.

a patchwork solution

Suggests a solution made up of diverse and ill-fitting parts.

a stopgap solution

Implies a temporary solution intended to fill an immediate need.

a band-aid solution

Similar to stopgap, but emphasizes the superficiality and inadequacy of the solution.

a partial remedy

Focuses on the incompleteness of the solution in addressing the problem.

a phased approach

Highlights the planned, sequential implementation of the solution.

a step-by-step resolution

Similar to phased approach, but emphasizes the deliberate and methodical nature of the solution.

an ad hoc fix

Suggests a solution created for a specific, immediate problem and not part of a larger plan.

a quick fix

Emphasizes the speed and ease of implementation, often at the expense of long-term effectiveness.

FAQs

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

You can use "a piecemeal solution" to describe a situation where a problem is addressed in stages or small parts, rather than comprehensively. For example: "The company implemented "a piecemeal solution" to the security vulnerabilities, addressing each issue as it was discovered".

What's the difference between "a piecemeal solution" and "a comprehensive solution"?

"A piecemeal solution" addresses a problem in separate, often uncoordinated parts, while "a comprehensive solution" tackles the problem as a whole, with a unified and strategic approach.

What are some synonyms for "a piecemeal solution"?

Alternatives to "a piecemeal solution" include "a fragmented approach", "an incremental solution", or "a patchwork solution". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is using "a piecemeal solution" always considered a negative thing?

While often implying a lack of strategic planning or resources, using "a piecemeal solution" isn't always negative. Sometimes it may be the most realistic strategy. Consider the context to know if this phrase is the correct choice.