a workaround

USAGE SUMMARY

"workaround" is a valid, understandable word in written English and is used to refer to a solution—often a quick, temporary one—to a problem.
For example: "We couldn't find any permanent solution to the issue, so we decided to implement a workaround in the meantime."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But there was a workaround.

The New York Times

There is a workaround, of sorts.

The New York Times - Tech

I'm sure there's a workaround here.

The Guardian

Does the timer have a workaround?

The Guardian - Tech

In such situations, a workaround is available.

The New York Times - Tech

Alibaba's recent public comments seem to hint at a workaround.

The New York Times

A workaround was found for the quorum problem.

The New Yorker

A workaround: you can buy an Actiontec MoCa adapter ($64).

The New York Times - Tech

Still, the regulator said, traders in Houston found a workaround.

The New York Times

"The FBI may have found a workaround," she said.

The Guardian

But Im grateful that at least a workaround is available.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a workaround", ensure that the context clearly explains the original problem and why the workaround is necessary. This provides clarity and prevents confusion for the reader.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a workaround" as a long-term solution when it is only intended to be temporary. Clearly indicate its limitations and the need for a more permanent fix.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a workaround" functions as a noun, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a method or strategy employed to overcome an obstacle or limitation, often implying that the solution is not ideal or permanent. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a workaround" refers to an alternative method used to bypass a problem or limitation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and business. While it implies a temporary or less-than-ideal solution, it highlights adaptability and resourcefulness. Alternatives include "an alternative solution" or "a makeshift solution". When using this phrase, ensure clarity about the original problem and the workaround's limitations to avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a workaround solution

It is the same as QUERY but has "solution" at the end, less concise.

a workaround method

It is the same as QUERY but has "method" at the end, less concise.

an alternative solution

Emphasizes the aspect of providing a different solution, potentially more formal.

a bypass

Focuses on circumventing a problem directly, often implying a simpler approach.

a stopgap measure

Suggests an interim solution used until a more permanent one is available.

a temporary fix

Highlights that the solution is not permanent and only intended for short-term use.

a makeshift solution

Highlights the temporary and often improvised nature of the solution.

a quick fix

Emphasizes the speed and ease of the solution, often implying it might not be ideal.

a detour

Suggests a change of course to avoid an obstacle, similar to finding an alternative route.

a means of escape

Implies evading a difficulty or restriction, often more dramatic.

FAQs

How can I use "a workaround" in a sentence?

You can use "a workaround" to describe a method to overcome a problem, such as "The software had a bug, but we found "a workaround" to continue our work".

What are some alternatives to "a workaround"?

Alternatives include "an alternative solution", "a makeshift solution", or "a bypass", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a workaround" in formal writing?

Yes, "a workaround" is acceptable in formal writing, but it's important to clearly explain the problem and the limitations of the "a workaround". Consider using more formal alternatives like "an alternative solution" if appropriate.

What's the difference between "a workaround" and "a solution"?

"A workaround" is typically a temporary or indirect method to solve a problem, while "a solution" is a more permanent and direct fix. A "a workaround" is often used when a true solution is not immediately available.