an initial solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an initial solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a preliminary or first approach to solving a problem or addressing an issue. Example: "After analyzing the data, we proposed an initial solution to improve the system's efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With that in mind, I've included the standard answer and an initial solution as well as a follow-up problem.

The New York Times

A professional who prescribes these as an initial solution without recommending or requiring some type of counseling first is irresponsible or, at best, ill informed.

The New York Times

In the 18th century an initial solution to the problem was found by Andrew Bell, Colin Macfarquhar, and William Smellie, three Scotsmen who were responsible for the first edition (1768 71) of Encyclopædia Britannica.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Choose an initial solution.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

We propose a constructive heuristic to generate an initial solution.

Computers & Operations Research

By this an initial solution is determined very fast.

Journal of Systems Architecture

SLS starts with an initial solution generated randomly.

Vietnam Journal of Computer Science

Both growths work based on an initial solution.

Journal of Software Engineering Research and Development

According to this definition, a chromosome is an initial solution.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

The proposed algorithm generates an initial solution using a variable fixing heuristic.

Computers & Operations Research

After the construction of an initial solution, local search is used to improve the solution.

Computer Communications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "an initial solution", clearly state that it is subject to revision and further development to avoid misunderstandings or premature commitments.

Common error

Avoid presenting "an initial solution" as a definitive answer. Always emphasize its preliminary nature and the possibility of future adjustments or refinements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an initial solution" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes a preliminary or first attempt at resolving a problem or addressing an issue, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

78%

News & Media

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an initial solution" is a commonly used phrase that refers to a preliminary approach or first attempt at solving a problem. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and particularly prevalent in scientific and academic contexts. When using this phrase, it's crucial to emphasize its tentative nature and avoid presenting it as a definitive answer. Alternatives include "a preliminary solution" or "a first step", offering similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Therefore, always clarify that "an initial solution" is subject to further development and refinement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preliminary solution

Replaces "initial" with "preliminary", emphasizing the tentative nature of the solution.

a starting point

Focuses on the solution as a place to begin, rather than a complete answer.

a first step

Highlights the solution as the beginning of a process.

a tentative answer

Emphasizes the uncertainty and potential for change in the solution.

a proposed remedy

Uses "remedy" instead of "solution", suggesting a fix for a specific issue.

a primary resolution

Substitutes "initial" with "primary" and "solution" with "resolution", providing a more formal tone.

a basic approach

Simplifies the phrase to denote a fundamental method or strategy.

an early workaround

Indicates a temporary solution implemented at an early stage.

a pilot resolution

Describes the solution as a test or trial implementation.

a conceptual design

Refers to a theoretical or abstract initial solution.

FAQs

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

You can use "an initial solution" to describe a starting point in problem-solving, such as, "The team proposed "an initial solution" to address the budget deficit."

What's a good alternative to "an initial solution"?

Alternatives include "a preliminary solution", "a first step", or "a tentative answer", depending on the context.

How does "an initial solution" differ from a final solution?

"An initial solution" represents a starting point and is subject to change, while a final solution is the refined and implemented outcome after thorough evaluation and adjustments.

In what contexts is "an initial solution" most appropriate?

The phrase "an initial solution" is suitable in contexts where problem-solving is iterative, such as in scientific research, project management, and software development.