a satisfactory solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a satisfactory solution' is correct and usable in written English.
You would use this phrase to indicate when something has been resolved to an acceptable level. Example sentence: After considering the various options, they were able to find a satisfactory solution to the problem.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That cannot be a satisfactory solution to the problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

Years of experiments have failed to yield a satisfactory solution.

The New Yorker

Furthermore, it can render a satisfactory solution.

Expert Systems with Applications

He said the vote could be postponed if a satisfactory solution was about to be achieved.

The New York Times - Sports

HSA remains a satisfactory solution in specific cases.

Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery

The result indicates that it yields a satisfactory solution.

Computers & Industrial Engineering

Anyway, I will post on here if I find a satisfactory solution.

Yale University

Although the problems that the newspaper industry faces are well known, no one has offered a satisfactory solution.

The New York Times

The cycle repeats until a satisfactory solution is reached, often requiring many costly and time-consuming iterations.

Harvard Business Review

The result has been costly and time-consuming iterations between supplier and customer to reach a satisfactory solution.

Harvard Business Review

This is hardly a new problem — and yet not a single financial product offers a satisfactory solution to this risk.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for precision in technical or formal writing, ensure that "a satisfactory solution" truly reflects an acceptable outcome rather than the best possible one. Consider stronger terms like 'optimal solution' if the latter is intended.

Common error

Avoid using "a satisfactory solution" when the resolution is truly exceptional or innovative. This phrase implies adequacy, not superiority. Opt for descriptions such as 'groundbreaking result' or 'transformative solution' to match the impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a satisfactory solution" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., 'find', 'reach', 'provide'). According to Ludwig, this phrase indicates a resolution that meets a certain acceptable level of requirement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a satisfactory solution" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes an acceptable, though not necessarily optimal, resolution to a problem. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts, including science, news, and formal business settings. When writing, it's important to ensure that the phrase accurately reflects the level of resolution achieved, avoiding overstatement if the solution is exceptional or understatement if it is merely adequate. Alternatives such as "an acceptable resolution" or "a sufficient remedy" can be considered depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an acceptable resolution

Focuses on the acceptability of the outcome, rather than its ideal nature.

an adequate answer

Highlights that the response meets the minimum requirements, without necessarily being perfect.

a sufficient remedy

Emphasizes that the solution provides enough relief or improvement.

a workable compromise

Implies that the solution is not ideal for everyone but is something all parties can agree on.

a reasonable approach

Stresses that the method is fair and sensible, leading to an acceptable result.

a fitting outcome

Suggests the result is appropriate and well-suited to the initial problem.

a practical resolution

Indicates that the solution is grounded in reality and can be implemented effectively.

an effective fix

Highlights that the solution successfully addresses the problem.

an appropriate measure

Focuses on the suitability of the action taken to address the issue.

a decent workaround

Implies that the solution is not perfect but is good enough to overcome the obstacle.

FAQs

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

You can use "a satisfactory solution" to describe a resolution that meets the minimum requirements or expectations. For instance, "After much debate, the committee arrived at "a satisfactory solution" to the budget deficit".

What's the difference between "a satisfactory solution" and an "optimal solution"?

"A satisfactory solution" implies an acceptable or adequate outcome, whereas an "optimal solution" signifies the best possible outcome. The former meets the basic needs, while the latter excels. Consider "a satisfactory solution" when you have found something that works but isn't necessarily perfect.

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

You can use alternatives like "an acceptable resolution", "an adequate answer", or "a sufficient remedy" depending on the context.

Is "a satisfactory solution" formal or informal?

"A satisfactory solution" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its neutrality allows it to fit well in various types of communication.