ability to solve a problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to solve a problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's skills or competencies in addressing challenges or issues. Example: "Her ability to solve a problem quickly and efficiently makes her an invaluable team member."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Some economists said the decision on rates also reflected the unhappy truth that a cut in the overnight federal funds rate might have merely highlighted the Fed's limited ability to solve a problem that entails the entire housing and mortgage markets.

The New York Times

Now, scientists have added a new talent to elephants' mental repertoire: The ability to solve a problem using insight that aha! moment when your internal light bulb switches on and you figure out the solution to a puzzle.

Science Magazine

The good news is that she realizes she has the ability to solve a problem by thinking about it (using the knowledge she learned in school).

Huffington Post

If identification precedes the ability to solve a problem, the inverse can be true of creating a problem: Once we identify an issue of concern, we may see it everywhere, even where it exists only as a whisper, or not at all.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

For me, that is the proof that I have the ability to solve a real problem.

The Guardian

Instead of looking at numbers, these startups must be assessed on the basis of their value to humanity, on their technical ability to solve a real problem and on their understanding of human-to-human interaction.

TechCrunch

A test in a deliberately artificial environment explored P. labiata′s ability to solve a novel problem by trial and error.

Wikipedia

A test in a deliberately artificial environment explored the Queensland P. fimbriata′s ability to solve a novel problem by trial and error.

Wikipedia

It didn't require a technological leap; I didn't have to believe someone had the ability to solve a technological problem.

Huffington Post

In a test to explore P. labiata′s ability to solve a novel problem, a miniature lagoon was set up, and the spiders had to find the best way to cross it.

Wikipedia

Where everything else had failed, where other attempts and interventions had fallen short, where I had previously been baffled, TM literally cracked opened my heart and gave me access to the ability to solve a social problem of epic proportions.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing someone's general problem-solving abilities, use "ability to solve a problem" to highlight their overall competence. For specific instances or types of problems, consider using more descriptive alternatives such as "skill in overcoming technical challenges" or "capacity to resolve interpersonal conflicts".

Common error

Avoid using "ability to solve a problem" in contexts that demand a more specific skill or expertise. Instead of saying someone has the "ability to solve a problem" in engineering, specify their "expertise in structural analysis" or "proficiency in CAD software".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to solve a problem" functions as a noun phrase that describes a general competence or skill. It identifies the capacity someone possesses to address and resolve challenges. As Ludwig AI explains, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ability to solve a problem" is a versatile and generally accepted way to describe someone's competence in addressing challenges. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's a grammatically sound and usable phrase. While common across news, science, and general contexts, it's important to tailor your language for specific scenarios. Consider alternatives like "problem-solving skills" or "capacity to resolve issues" for a more nuanced description. Be mindful of overgeneralization and specify the area of expertise when relevant to improve clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

problem-solving skills

Focuses on the skills involved in solving problems, emphasizing a practical application.

capacity to resolve issues

Highlights the capability to bring issues to a resolution.

competence in addressing challenges

Emphasizes competence and the act of facing and dealing with challenges.

aptitude for problem resolution

Suggests a natural talent or quickness in resolving problems.

skill in overcoming obstacles

Focuses on the skill of surpassing or conquering barriers.

talent for finding solutions

Emphasizes an innate talent or gift for discovering solutions.

knack for dealing with difficulties

Suggests a special or clever way of handling difficult situations.

resourcefulness in tackling problems

Highlights the ability to find clever ways to overcome difficulties using available resources.

expertise in handling complex situations

Emphasizes a high level of knowledge and skill in managing intricate scenarios.

strength in critical thinking

Underscores the mental strength and analytical prowess applied to solving problems.

FAQs

How can I use "ability to solve a problem" in a sentence?

You can use "ability to solve a problem" to describe someone's competence in addressing challenges. For example: "Her ability to solve a problem quickly and efficiently makes her an invaluable team member."

What are some alternatives to "ability to solve a problem"?

Alternatives include "problem-solving skills", "capacity to resolve issues", or "competence in addressing challenges", depending on the specific context.

Is "ability to solve a problem" formal or informal?

"Ability to solve a problem" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal settings might benefit from more specific or technical language.

What skills are related to the "ability to solve a problem"?

Related skills include critical thinking, analytical reasoning, decision-making, and resourcefulness.