a short-term solution to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a short-term solution to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a temporary fix or approach to a problem that is not intended to be permanent. Example: "While we work on a long-term strategy, we need to implement a short-term solution to address the immediate issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The housing subsidy plan provides a short-term solution to a long-term crisis.

The New York Times

Vouchers are only a short-term solution to a long-term problem.

The New York Times

This phenomenon is, in fact, a short-term solution to an endemic problem.

University of California, Berkeley

NAT provides a short-term solution to the depleting IP v.4 addresses on the Internet.

The Best Damn Firewall Book Period

A short-term solution to congestion, the task force said, would be a toll increase during peak hours.

The New York Times

But such agreements are only seen as a short-term solution to funding shortfalls in Africa's top producer.

The New York Times

Opponents of the bill argue that allowing self-service stations is a short-term solution to a long-term problem.

The New York Times

Many expect that politicians will come up with a short-term solution to avert the fiscal cliff.

The New York Times

In other cases, the authorities have been criticized for creating arbitrary rules as a short-term solution to a problem.

The New York Times

A short-term solution to deal with New York's fiscal Mayday is not available because there are no short-term solutions in Albany.

The New York Times

Through a licensing agreement, the two companies have found what they hope will be a short-term solution to their problems.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid overusing "a short-term solution to" in formal writing. Consider alternatives like "interim measure" or "temporary workaround" to improve readability and precision.

Common error

Do not present "a short-term solution to" as a comprehensive fix. Clearly differentiate it from long-term strategies to avoid misleading stakeholders or creating unrealistic expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a short-term solution to" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a temporary fix or remedy for a problem. Ludwig AI confirms it is a common way to describe strategies or actions designed to provide immediate relief or address urgent needs.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a short-term solution to" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a temporary fix for a problem. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's widely used across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Academia. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly indicates that the solution is not intended to be permanent and that a longer-term strategy may be necessary. Consider alternatives like "temporary workaround" or "interim measure" for variety and precision. Be careful not to present it as a comprehensive fix.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Interim solution

Indicates a solution implemented in the meantime, until a more permanent one can be found.

Temporary workaround

Emphasizes a practical, though not ideal, method to bypass an immediate obstacle.

Interim measure

Highlights the temporary nature of the action taken, often implying a more formal or official context.

Stopgap solution

Indicates a quick and provisional fix used to prevent further damage or deterioration.

Provisional fix

Stresses the conditional and non-permanent nature of the repair or adjustment.

Quick fix

Suggests a fast and simple solution, potentially overlooking long-term implications.

Band-aid solution

Implies a superficial solution that addresses the symptoms but not the underlying problem.

Short-run remedy

Focuses on the immediate positive effect, neglecting future considerations.

Immediate resolution

Highlights the promptness and swiftness of the solution.

Expedient solution

Suggests that the solution is convenient and practical, though potentially not the best overall.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a short-term solution to" in a sentence?

Ensure you clearly define the problem that the short-term solution is addressing, and, if possible, hint at the longer-term strategy that will eventually replace it. For example, "The subsidy of up to $14,600 will lure teachers, but it will keep few after..." indicates that the housing subsidy is "a short-term solution to" a long-term crisis.

What are some alternatives to "a short-term solution to"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "temporary workaround", "interim measure", or "stopgap solution". Consider the specific nuance you wish to convey when selecting an alternative.

When is it appropriate to use "a short-term solution to"?

It's appropriate when you need to address an immediate problem quickly, knowing that the solution is not sustainable or ideal for the long run. Use it when a more comprehensive solution requires more time or resources to implement.

What is the difference between "a short-term solution to" and a permanent solution?

"A short-term solution to" provides immediate relief but does not resolve the root cause of the problem. A permanent solution, on the other hand, addresses the underlying issue to prevent it from recurring. Short-term solutions are often used as a bridge until a long-term strategy can be implemented.