acceptable solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acceptable solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a resolution or answer that meets the required standards or criteria in a given context. Example: "After reviewing all the proposals, we concluded that the only acceptable solution was the one that addressed all our concerns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is an acceptable solution.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's not a perfect solution, but it's an acceptable solution".

The New York Times

But this is not an acceptable solution to the problem.

The New York Times

Doing nothing is no longer an acceptable solution".

The New Yorker

"We are still committed to reaching a mutually acceptable solution".

The Guardian

But Mr. Siewert said: "That's just not an acceptable solution.

The New York Times

Now the two-state solution is an acceptable solution.

The New York Times

Gurinder Singh, 51, called it "the most socially acceptable solution".

The New York Times

The new owners of ReplayTV seem eager to find a mutually acceptable solution.

The New York Times

Is there hope for a mutually acceptable solution to the nuclear issue?

The Guardian

The United States should be prepared to participate actively in efforts to find an acceptable solution.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for a neutral tone, use "acceptable solution" to convey that a resolution meets necessary criteria without necessarily being ideal or optimal. For instance, in negotiations, it signifies a compromise both parties can agree to.

Common error

Avoid using "acceptable solution" when a truly excellent or innovative outcome has been achieved. Reserve it for scenarios where the resolution is adequate and meets basic requirements, not exceeds them. Other phrases like "ideal resolution" or "optimal solution" would be more appropriate for great outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acceptable solution" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a resolution, answer, or compromise that meets the required standards or criteria, as suggested by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "acceptable solution" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies a resolution or outcome meeting the necessary requirements, though not necessarily optimal. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts like News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. When writing, use this phrase to indicate an adequate resolution. Alternatives such as "satisfactory resolution" or "viable answer" may provide nuanced variations depending on the specific context. Be mindful not to overstate the quality of the outcome when using this phrase; it implies adequacy, not excellence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

satisfactory resolution

Emphasizes the fulfilling of requirements or expectations to a satisfying degree.

adequate compromise

Focuses on the balance achieved through mutual concessions, resulting in a solution that is sufficient.

viable answer

Highlights the practicality and workability of the solution.

suitable remedy

Implies a solution that effectively addresses a problem or corrects a wrong.

permissible outcome

Indicates a result that is allowed or authorized.

tolerable result

Suggests a result that, while not ideal, can be endured or accepted.

workable arrangement

Focuses on the practical aspects of the solution and its ability to function effectively.

agreeable resolution

Highlights the mutual consent and satisfaction derived from the solution.

suitable course of action

Indicates a specific plan or strategy that is appropriate and fitting for the situation.

decent fix

Suggests a solution that is reasonably good or satisfactory, though perhaps not perfect.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "acceptable solution" in a sentence?

You can use "acceptable solution" to describe a compromise or outcome that meets the minimum requirements or is satisfactory to all parties involved. For instance, "After lengthy negotiations, the parties reached an "acceptable solution" to the dispute".

What are some alternatives to "acceptable solution"?

Alternatives include "satisfactory resolution", "adequate compromise", or "viable answer", depending on the specific context and the nuances you want to convey.

Is "acceptable solution" the same as "ideal solution"?

No, "acceptable solution" implies that the outcome meets the minimum required standards, while "ideal solution" suggests the best possible outcome. An "acceptable solution" may not be perfect but is still satisfactory.

When is it not appropriate to use the term "acceptable solution"?

Avoid using "acceptable solution" when the outcome is genuinely outstanding or innovative. In such cases, terms like "optimal outcome" or "exemplary resolution" may be more fitting.