a stopgap solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stopgap solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a temporary fix or measure that is intended to address a problem until a more permanent solution is found. Example: "While we work on a long-term strategy, we will implement a stopgap solution to manage the current issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Business

Politics

Technology

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

She found a stopgap solution, renting desk space for $450 a month in a nearby office suite.

The New York Times

It is a stopgap solution.

The New York Times

Charity can never be more than a stopgap solution.

The New Yorker

However, the trust now feels more like a stopgap solution.

The Guardian

But, like fracking, he says, it offers only "a stopgap" solution.

The Guardian

Burke, therefore, could represent a stopgap solution for the Rangers, and would probably not come at too much cost.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Satellite services such as Zuckerberg's could provide a much-needed stopgap solution for large parts of the continent where those slowly approaching fiber-optic cables are a long way off.

The Guardian - Tech

The deal to shore up Spain's banks is only the latest in a marathon crisis that has seen one stopgap solution after another over the last three years.

The New York Times

With every stopgap solution to the euro-zone debt crisis, the gaps have gotten larger and the stops have gotten shorter.

The New York Times

Early on Tuesday, finance ministers from the euro zone and the International Monetary Fund, meeting for the third time in three weeks, cobbled together yet another stopgap solution for Greece.

The New York Times

Double-patterning lithography is the current stopgap solution.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a stopgap solution", ensure that you clearly communicate the intention to implement a more permanent solution in the future. This prevents misinterpretations of the temporary measure as the definitive answer to the problem.

Common error

Avoid treating a "a stopgap solution" as a long-term answer. Always acknowledge the underlying problem and the need for a comprehensive resolution; otherwise, the temporary fix may create more significant problems down the line.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stopgap solution" functions primarily as a noun phrase that modifies another noun or acts as a subject/object within a sentence. According to Ludwig, it refers to a temporary measure implemented until a more permanent solution is found. Examples show its utility across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Formal & Business

19%

Sports

11%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a stopgap solution" is a widely used and understood phrase that denotes a temporary fix implemented until a more permanent resolution can be achieved. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and versatile, fitting into various contexts from news reports to business discussions. While useful for immediate problem-solving, it's crucial to acknowledge that it's not a final answer and to actively pursue long-term strategies. Alternatives like "temporary fix" or "interim measure" can be used to add nuance or formality depending on the situation. Remember to clarify the intention behind its implementation to avoid misunderstandings. Overall, "a stopgap solution" is a valuable term for describing temporary strategies, but it's essential to use it responsibly by addressing the underlying problems.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

temporary fix

Replaces "solution" with "fix", emphasizing the act of repairing something temporarily.

interim measure

Uses "interim" to stress the time-bound and provisional aspect of the solution.

short-term remedy

Directly states that the remedy is for the short term.

provisional arrangement

Highlights the arrangement aspect, suggesting a preliminary agreement rather than a final settlement.

makeshift solution

Emphasizes the resourcefulness or improvisation involved in creating the solution, often implying it's not ideal.

quick fix

Suggests a fast and easy, but possibly superficial, solution.

band-aid solution

Implies the solution is superficial and doesn't address the root cause.

temporary expedient

Uses "expedient" to mean a convenient but possibly improper or immoral solution.

ad-hoc measure

Indicates the measure was created for a specific, immediate need without planning.

contingency plan

Focuses on planning for unexpected events, offering a temporary solution in response to unforeseen circumstances.

FAQs

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

"A stopgap solution" is used to describe a temporary measure implemented until a more permanent solution can be found. For example, "The company implemented a "a stopgap solution" to address the immediate financial crisis while developing a long-term strategy."

What's the difference between "a stopgap solution" and "a band-aid solution"?

While both terms refer to temporary fixes, "a stopgap solution" is generally neutral, suggesting a practical short-term measure. "A band-aid solution", however, often implies that the fix is inadequate or superficial and doesn't address the root cause of the problem.

Are there more formal alternatives to "a stopgap solution"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "an interim measure" or "a provisional arrangement". These options are suitable for academic, business, or official contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "a stopgap solution"?

It's appropriate to use "a stopgap solution" when you need to address an immediate problem but lack the resources or time to implement a permanent fix. It's crucial to acknowledge its temporary nature and outline steps toward a long-term resolution.