a single solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single solution" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe a problem that has only one possible answer or outcome. Example: After hours of brainstorming, the team finally came up with a single solution to the company's budget deficit.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The two problems have a single solution.

The Economist

Each dilemma has a single solution.

The Guardian - Tech

Nor is there a single solution," Kember says.

The Guardian

He, too, doubts that there will be a single solution.

The Economist

Baseball strategy is not a puzzle with a single solution.

The Economist

But a single solution cannot capture all content.

The Economist

It is an intentionally open-ended story, prematurely closed, a mystery without a single solution.

The New Yorker

"No one has a single solution for all this," Mr. Spano said in a phone interview.

The New York Times

"The E.U. cannot accept an agreement that mandates a single solution".

The New York Times - Tech

Is it possible their extensive list of ills needs only a single solution?

The New York Times - Sports

So if you're struggling to home in on a single solution, an idle stroll may not be what you need.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing multifaceted problems, carefully consider if framing the issue as having "a single solution" accurately reflects the complexity. If not, acknowledge the need for a combination of strategies.

Common error

Avoid presenting nuanced issues as having "a single solution" if multiple factors are involved. Oversimplification can lead to ineffective strategies and a failure to address the root causes of the problem.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single solution" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. As Ludwig AI suggests, it describes a unique answer or method to resolve a problem.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a single solution" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe situations where only one answer or method exists to resolve a problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is employed across diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. While versatile, it is crucial to avoid oversimplification by acknowledging the complexity of problems that might require multifaceted strategies. Alternatives such as ""one solution"" or ""a unique answer"" offer subtle variations in meaning. Therefore, understanding the context and potential nuances is key to employing "a single solution" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one solution

Omits the article "a", making it slightly less formal.

a unique answer

Replaces "solution" with "answer", emphasizing the problem-solving aspect.

a sole resolution

Substitutes "solution" with "resolution" and "single" with "sole" indicating the singularity and finality of the answer.

a solitary answer

Replaces "solution" with "answer" and "single" with "solitary", which emphasizes isolation.

a one-size-fits-all fix

Uses the idiom "one-size-fits-all fix", implying a solution intended to be universally applicable.

a silver bullet

Employs the metaphor "silver bullet", referring to a simple and seemingly magical solution to a complex problem.

a panacea

Replaces "single solution" with the term "panacea", implying a solution for all difficulties.

the only way out

Uses a more dramatic term to imply that there is only one solution available to solve the problem or issue.

the magic bullet

Uses the metaphor "magic bullet", referring to a simple and effective solution to a complex problem.

a unified approach

Replaces solution with approach

FAQs

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

You can use "a single solution" to describe a situation where there is only one way to resolve an issue. For instance, "The team believed there was "a single solution" to the budget deficit."

What are some alternatives to "a single solution"?

Alternatives to "a single solution" include "one solution", "a unique answer", or "a sole resolution", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always appropriate to seek "a single solution"?

No, many complex problems require multifaceted approaches. Seeking "a single solution" may be suitable for straightforward issues, but complex problems often demand a combination of strategies.

What is the difference between "a single solution" and "multiple solutions"?

"A single solution" implies one definitive answer, while "multiple solutions" suggest that there are several possible ways to address a problem, each potentially having its own advantages and disadvantages.