adequate solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adequate solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a solution that is satisfactory or acceptable for a particular problem or situation. Example: "After reviewing all the options, we concluded that the proposed plan was an adequate solution to our budget constraints."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, this is not an adequate solution.

The Guardian - Money

The worms would not provide an adequate solution in any sensible timescale.

The Guardian

"We do not believe a review of physics is an adequate solution," it said.

The Guardian

When it broke down we formed Efta, but that was no adequate solution, political or economic.

The Economist

Even then, there's no knowing what an adequate solution might cost.

The New York Times

In many situations, however, a traditional chapter 11 case does not provide an adequate solution for retailers.

Harvard University

The purpose of the research is to find adequate solution against rising damp in historical buildings.

Energy Procedia

MACI was an adequate solution for the management of the large (5 chondralndefectefect.

Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic & Related Surgery

A neatly separated, side-by-side coexistence of the variations will not be an adequate solution unless we are dealing with Bach's Goldberg Variations.

The Guardian - Books

For the judgment to claim that DHPs are a proportionate and adequate solution to the discrimination faced by disabled people under the bedroom tax, seems bizarre.

The Guardian - Opinion

Asking relatives to care for elderly hospital patients if nurses do not feel they have time may sound appealing to some, but it is not an adequate solution.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "adequate solution", ensure the context clearly defines the criteria for adequacy. What makes the solution 'good enough'?

Common error

Avoid presenting a solution as "adequate" when it's clearly suboptimal or doesn't fully address the problem. Using "adequate solution" implies it meets the minimum requirements, so don't oversell it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adequate solution" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "adequate" modifies the noun "solution". Ludwig's examples show it being used to describe whether a solution meets the necessary requirements for a given problem.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

32%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "adequate solution" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a solution that is satisfactory or acceptable for a given problem. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it signifies that the solution meets the minimum requirements, although it may not be the optimal choice. Its usage spans across various contexts, including news, science, and academia, indicating its versatility and broad applicability. When writing, it's essential to ensure that the context clarifies the criteria for adequacy and avoids overstating the solution's effectiveness. Alternatives like "sufficient solution" or "satisfactory resolution" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sufficient solution

Emphasizes the solution meets the minimum requirements or needs.

satisfactory resolution

Focuses on the outcome being acceptable or pleasing.

reasonable approach

Highlights the logic and sensibility of the solution.

acceptable compromise

Implies a solution that involves concessions but is still good enough.

workable method

Suggests the solution is practical and can be implemented effectively.

suitable fix

Indicates a solution that is appropriate for the specific problem.

serviceable remedy

Highlights the solution's ability to address and improve the situation.

passable answer

Suggests a solution that is just good enough to be considered acceptable.

appropriate measure

Focuses on the solution being fitting and relevant to the circumstances.

effective response

Emphasizes the solution's capacity to produce a desired effect or outcome.

FAQs

What does "adequate solution" mean?

An "adequate solution" refers to a resolution that is satisfactory or acceptable for a particular problem, though it may not be the best possible solution. It implies the solution meets the minimum requirements or needs.

What can I say instead of "adequate solution"?

You can use alternatives like "sufficient solution", "satisfactory resolution", or "reasonable approach" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the term "adequate solution"?

Use "adequate solution" when you want to convey that a proposed fix, while not perfect, is still acceptable and addresses the core issues. It's suitable when discussing compromises or solutions that meet essential criteria.

Is there a negative connotation to using "adequate solution"?

The phrase itself isn't inherently negative, but it can suggest the solution is not ideal or optimal. If you want to emphasize the positive aspects of the solution, consider using phrases like "optimal solution" or "ideal resolution".