an intermediate solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an intermediate solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a temporary or transitional answer to a problem before a final solution is implemented. Example: "While we work on a permanent fix, we will implement an intermediate solution to address the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

There might be an intermediate solution.

The New York Times - Arts

"Barriers are at best an intermediate solution," Jacob told me in his office.

The New Yorker

I am all for reducing carry-on items on airplanes, but there needs to be an intermediate solution.

The New York Times

Household water treatment and safe storage systems represent an intermediate solution for settings that lack infrastructure supplying safe drinking water.

Science of The Total Environment

While encouraging states to fulfill their part of the bargain, Congress should adopt an intermediate solution: require Internet companies, mail-order houses and the like to collect taxes at states' base sales tax rates.

The New York Times

The optimized solutions are analysed in this paper, in particular three solutions have been selected: minimum primary energy consumption, minimum hours of blind deployed and an intermediate solution.

Building and Environment

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

24 One group made mention of the option of delayed antibiotic prescribing as a intermediate solution in doubtful cases but argued that this measure was not yet widely implemented in Spain.

Family Practice

We show by structural induction that all intermediate solution lists are sorted.

Algorithms for Molecular Biology

The Fastloc uses a novel intermediate solution that couples brief satellite reception with limited onboard processing to reduce the memory required to store or transmit the location.

Plosone

The mixtures studied do not form an intermediate solid solution.

Polymer

He called it an "intermediate term" solution, saying, "It sends a signal to markets that the United States is not going to restrict exploration".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an intermediate solution" when you want to convey that the current fix is not permanent and a better, long-term solution is still being sought. This acknowledges the limitations of the current approach and signals that further improvements are expected.

Common error

Avoid presenting "an intermediate solution" as the ultimate answer. Clearly state that it's a temporary measure to prevent confusion and unmet expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an intermediate solution" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence, denoting a temporary or transitional remedy to a problem. Ludwig AI indicates it's commonly used across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

56%

News & Media

37%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an intermediate solution" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a temporary or provisional fix implemented while seeking a more permanent resolution. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is frequently used in scientific and news media contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to manage expectations and clearly communicate that it's not intended as a final answer. Alternatives like "a temporary fix" or "a stopgap measure" can be used to convey a similar meaning. By understanding its function, purpose, and common usage patterns, you can effectively use "an intermediate solution" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a temporary fix

Focuses on the short-term nature of the solution.

a short-term solution

Highlights the limited duration of the solution's effectiveness.

a stopgap measure

Emphasizes that the solution is intended only to fill a gap until a better one is found.

a compromise solution

Highlights the element of negotiation and mutual concession.

a provisional arrangement

Suggests a formal agreement that is subject to change.

an interim arrangement

Similar to provisional, but often used in legal or formal settings.

a halfway measure

Implies a compromise that may not fully satisfy all parties.

a transitional strategy

Emphasizes the solution's role in moving from one state to another.

a tactical workaround

Focuses on a practical, albeit possibly imperfect, method to overcome an immediate obstacle.

a partial resolution

Indicates that the solution only addresses a portion of the overall problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "an intermediate solution" to describe a temporary fix or a compromise that is implemented while a more permanent or ideal solution is being developed or sought. For example, "The city implemented "an intermediate solution" to ease traffic congestion until the new highway is completed."

What can I say instead of "an intermediate solution"?

You can use alternatives like "a temporary fix", "a stopgap measure", or "a short-term solution" depending on the specific context.

Is "an intermediate solution" the same as a final solution?

No, "an intermediate solution" is not the same as a final solution. It is a temporary or provisional measure intended to address a problem or need in the short term, while a more comprehensive or permanent solution is being developed or implemented. A final solution aims to resolve the issue completely and permanently.

What is the difference between "an intermediate solution" and "a compromise solution"?

"An intermediate solution" refers to the temporary nature of the solution, whereas "a compromise solution" refers to the agreement or concessions made by different parties to reach a mutually acceptable solution, which may or may not be temporary.