a reasonable solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reasonable solution" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, but generally refers to a practical, sensible, or logical answer to a problem or issue. Example: After much discussion and debate, the team finally came up with a reasonable solution to increase productivity in the office.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That might sound like a reasonable solution.

The Washington Post

That may sound, on the surface, like a reasonable solution.

The Washington Post

Given these circumstances, crowdfunding seems like a reasonable solution.

The Economist

It was a reasonable solution, but it didn't have to be the only solution.

The New Yorker

Mr. Bush sees leadership as the art of bringing people together to find a reasonable solution.

The New York Times

My friend thought this a reasonable solution to the problem, and the commission went happily ahead.

The Guardian - Books

"One would hope that the dismal economy will pressure them to find a reasonable solution".

The New York Times

The crunch will come if and when India offers a reasonable solution to the Kashmir dispute.

The Economist

If you add all the changes up it is a reasonable solution in the short-term," he said.

The Guardian

"We're not out to provoke ICE, just to offer a path to a reasonable solution," she told me.

The New Yorker

"It's a reasonable solution to a difficult problem, how to get all our accused tried in the time available".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "a reasonable solution", ensure you articulate not only what the solution is, but also why it is considered reasonable. Provide clear justifications, considering potential alternatives and their drawbacks.

Common error

Avoid simply labeling a solution as "a reasonable solution" without providing adequate reasoning. Always explain the logic and benefits that make it reasonable in the given context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reasonable solution" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a commonly used expression, referring to a sensible or acceptable answer to a problem.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reasonable solution" is a commonly used phrase that describes a practical and logical answer to a problem. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts. While it's suitable for both neutral and professional settings, it appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to justify why the solution is considered reasonable, considering alternatives and their drawbacks. Alternatives include "a plausible solution", "a sensible solution", and "a viable solution". Remember that "a reasonable solution" implies practicality and may involve compromises, distinguishing it from an ideal, but perhaps unrealistic, outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a plausible solution

Replaces 'reasonable' with 'plausible', suggesting the solution is believable or likely to be true.

a sensible solution

Uses 'sensible' instead of 'reasonable', emphasizing the practicality and good judgment of the solution.

a viable solution

Substitutes 'reasonable' with 'viable', focusing on the solution's ability to work or be sustained.

a practical solution

Replaces 'reasonable' with 'practical', highlighting the solution's feasibility and usefulness in a real-world context.

a logical solution

Uses 'logical' instead of 'reasonable', emphasizing that the solution is based on sound reasoning and clear thinking.

a sound solution

Replaces 'reasonable' with 'sound', suggesting that the solution is well-reasoned and reliable.

an acceptable solution

Uses 'acceptable' rather than 'reasonable', emphasizing that the solution meets the minimum requirements or standards.

a workable solution

Replaces 'reasonable' with 'workable', indicating that the solution is capable of being put into practice effectively.

a fair compromise

Shifts from 'solution' to 'compromise', suggesting a mutual agreement that is equitable and reasonable for all parties involved.

a pragmatic approach

Replaces 'reasonable solution' with 'pragmatic approach', focusing on a practical and realistic way of dealing with a situation.

FAQs

How can I effectively present "a reasonable solution" in an argument?

Start by clearly defining the problem, outlining the criteria for a successful resolution, presenting your solution, and then explicitly explaining why it meets the criteria and is "a reasonable solution". Comparison with alternative solutions can further strengthen your argument.

What are some synonyms for "a reasonable solution"?

You can use alternatives like "a plausible solution", "a sensible solution", or "a viable solution" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a reasonable solution" in formal writing?

The phrase "a reasonable solution" is appropriate in formal writing when you want to convey that a proposed solution is logical, practical, and justified, without necessarily being the absolute best or perfect option. It implies a balanced and well-considered approach.

What distinguishes "a reasonable solution" from an ideal solution?

"A reasonable solution" implies practicality and feasibility, often involving compromises. In contrast, an ideal solution represents the best possible outcome, regardless of constraints or practicality. Therefore, a pragmatic approach might lead to "a workable solution" that is ultimately "a reasonable solution", whereas an ideal solution might remain theoretical.