a poor solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a poor solution" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a solution that is inadequate or unsatisfactory in addressing a problem. Example: "After reviewing the options, it became clear that the proposed method was a poor solution to the issue at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Even public shame seems like a poor solution.

The Guardian - Opinion

Standard-issue picture lights, clamped onto a frame above the painting, are also a poor solution.

The New York Times

It is a poor solution both for preserving the maritime tradition of our waterfront and for the neighborhood's economy.

The New York Times

Long construction times for nuclear power plants make them a poor solution to addressing blackouts and other power shortages now.

The New York Times

If causation primarily runs from growth to debt, then pro-cyclical austerity measures are a poor solution.

The Economist

To reject it as a poor solution is an error – it isn't a solution, it is a step toward a solution, a very important and crucial step.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

This method requires adding a poor solvent (antisolvent) to the solution in which the solute is dissolved in, forming a supersaturated solution that results in the crystallization of the compound in nanosized form [26, 27].

International Nano Letters

Measured against the abandoned ideals of the Woolf report, it is a desperately poor solution.

The Guardian - Sport

This was done to show that the PSO implemented in this article only finds a stable equilibrium solution and not the global optimum, as increasing the dimensionality of the problem makes it harder for the PSO, i.e., PSO with unconstrained backhauling, FBH, yielded a slightly poor solution compared to the PSO with constrained backhauling (LBH), when the objective function was sum rate maximization.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Estimates of enrichment fraction (light points are calculated using count values, dark points using FPKM values) result in a relatively poor solution to the mixture proportion.

BMC Genomics

To evaluate the specific contribution of Gly35 to domain properties, Gly35 was introduced into a VH domain with poor solution properties.

Journal of Molecular Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a poor solution", clearly articulate why the solution is inadequate. Provide specific reasons or examples to support your assessment.

Common error

Avoid using "a poor solution" when a solution is simply not ideal but still functional. Reserve this phrase for situations where the solution is significantly flawed or detrimental.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a poor solution" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "poor" modifies the noun "solution". It serves to describe a particular solution as being inadequate or of low quality. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a poor solution" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe an inadequate or flawed resolution to a problem. Ludwig AI validates its usability and correctness. It is frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts, reflecting its broad applicability. When using this phrase, it's crucial to articulate the specific reasons for its inadequacy to enhance clarity and impact. Consider alternatives like "an inadequate remedy" or "a flawed approach" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an inadequate remedy

Emphasizes the insufficiency of the solution in addressing the problem.

an unsatisfactory resolution

Focuses on the disappointing nature of the outcome.

a deficient answer

Highlights the lack of quality or completeness in the response.

a flawed approach

Points out the inherent imperfections in the method.

a weak fix

Suggests the solution is fragile and unlikely to last.

a suboptimal method

Indicates there are better alternatives available.

an ineffective measure

Stresses the solution's inability to produce the desired result.

a regrettable choice

Highlights the negative consequences of selecting this solution.

a second-rate option

Implies the solution is of inferior quality compared to others.

a makeshift arrangement

Suggests the solution is temporary and not well-planned.

FAQs

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

You can use "a poor solution" to describe something that doesn't adequately address a problem. For example: "Using outdated technology is "a poor solution" for modern challenges."

What are some alternatives to saying "a poor solution"?

Alternatives include "an inadequate remedy", "an unsatisfactory resolution", or "a flawed approach". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to describe something as "a poor solution"?

It's appropriate when the proposed solution is significantly flawed, ineffective, or likely to cause further problems. Be prepared to explain why you consider it "a poor solution".

What makes a solution 'poor' versus simply 'not ideal'?

A 'poor' solution typically implies significant shortcomings or negative consequences, while 'not ideal' suggests that a better option exists but the current solution is still functional to some extent.