an adequate solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an adequate solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a solution that is satisfactory or acceptable for a particular problem or situation. Example: "After reviewing all the options, we concluded that implementing a new software system would be an adequate solution to our current challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

An ALS algorithm is an adequate solution for this problem and already led to good results in the field of image processing [20].

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

However, this is not an adequate solution.

The Guardian - Money

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

The Guardian

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

The New York Times

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

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

Furthermore, for the fewer than 15 percent of hearing-impaired people who have hearing aids, the devices themselves are not an adequate solution.

The New York Times

She wanted to swim, but only with girls.But an appeals court in Leipzig upheld the opinion of lower courts that the burkini was an adequate solution.

The Economist

Above all, this idea won't offer an adequate solution because it doesn't get to the real heart of the problem, which lies in the asymmetric framework by which pay is determined across the classes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Leading stock indexes in Europe and the United States rose Monday after brutal losses last week that were caused in part by investors' doubts that European leaders were capable of developing an adequate solution to the debt crisis.

The New York Times

While it was not signed by Sydney Theatre company artistic director, Jonathan Church, an addendum stated that as a "newcomer" from the UK he had witnessed how funding cuts impacted artistic communities, and stressed that for small and middle-scale companies, philanthropy rarely proved an adequate solution to meeting funding gaps.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an adequate solution", ensure the context clarifies what makes the solution 'adequate'. Be specific about the criteria it meets.

Common error

Avoid using "an adequate solution" when a more robust or comprehensive resolution is required. Using it in situations demanding excellence can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an adequate solution" functions as a noun phrase, where 'adequate' modifies 'solution'. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing something that meets a minimum requirement. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an adequate solution" describes a resolution that meets the basic requirements of a problem, though not necessarily the ideal one. Ludwig's analysis confirms that this phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts, from scientific research to news reporting. When choosing to use "an adequate solution", consider whether it accurately reflects the situation or if a more robust or innovative term is needed. Remember, while adequacy implies acceptance, it doesn't necessarily indicate excellence or optimality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a satisfactory answer

Replaces 'adequate solution' with 'satisfactory answer', focusing on acceptability.

a sufficient remedy

Substitutes 'adequate solution' with 'sufficient remedy', emphasizing effectiveness.

an acceptable compromise

Replaces the concept of solution with that of a compromise that is acceptable.

a reasonable resolution

Substitutes 'adequate solution' with 'reasonable resolution', highlighting a fair outcome.

a fitting response

Changes the noun but keeps the meaning of achieving some acceptable target.

an appropriate fix

Emphasizes the suitability of the solution.

a passable result

Focuses on the outcome being just good enough.

a working answer

Highlights the practicality and functionality of the answer.

a practical approach

Shifts the focus from a concrete solution to a general method or strategy.

an expedient measure

Focuses on convenience and efficiency over perfection.

FAQs

How can I use "an adequate solution" in a sentence?

You can use "an adequate solution" when discussing options that meet the minimum requirements or provide a satisfactory, though not necessarily ideal, answer to a problem. For instance, "While not perfect, the proposed measure represents "an adequate solution" to the funding shortfall".

What are some alternatives to "an adequate solution"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a sufficient remedy", "a satisfactory answer", or "an acceptable compromise". Each carries slightly different connotations related to meeting needs or expectations.

What is the difference between "an adequate solution" and "an ideal solution"?

"An adequate solution" implies that the solution is just good enough to meet the basic requirements, while "an ideal solution" suggests the best possible outcome, exceeding expectations. An adequate solution is acceptable, but not necessarily optimal.

Is it always positive to describe something as "an adequate solution"?

Not always. Describing something as "an adequate solution" can sometimes imply a lack of ambition or a willingness to settle for something less than the best. It's crucial to consider the context and whether a more comprehensive or innovative approach is warranted.