approach to solving

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "approach to solving" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to an approach or method employed to solve a problem. For example, "We are exploring a new approach to solving the traffic problem in the city center."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

An approach to solving this problem?

The New York Times

Our approach to solving this problem must therefore be holistic.

The Guardian - Opinion

Many were hopeful of this approach to solving the conflict.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Matheson's campaign literature underscores what he calls a "common-sense approach" to solving problems.

The New York Times

The ingredients for trouble perhaps lay in Mr. Swartz's personal and direct approach to solving problems.

The New York Times - Tech

Mr. Rivera said he tried an unconventional approach to solving the problem.

The New York Times

The irony is that the decommunisation laws remind many of the communist approach to solving problems.

The Economist

A. We pioneered an unconventional approach to solving the genetic basis of human disease.

The New York Times - Science

American national security and foreign policy requires "a whole-of-government approach to solving modern problems," Admiral Mullen said.

The New York Times

In most cases, Mr. Sherpao said, the police have had a boilerplate approach to solving the suicide bombings.

The New York Times

It was a start at forming the structure of a global approach to solving our serious economic problems.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "approach to solving", ensure that the noun or noun phrase preceding it clearly identifies the problem being addressed. For instance, specify whether it's a "market-based approach to solving these problems" or a "whole-of-government approach to solving modern problems".

Common error

Avoid using "solving" as a noun directly. Instead of saying, "The solving to this problem is...", prefer "The solution to this problem is..." or "An approach to solving this problem is...".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "approach to solving" functions as a noun phrase, where "approach" is the noun and "to solving" acts as a prepositional phrase modifying it. This construction describes a particular method or strategy used to address a problem. Ludwig and its examples confirm this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "approach to solving" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a method or strategy for addressing a problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and used across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal business settings. When using this phrase, clarity is key: clearly state the problem being addressed. Alternatives include "method for solving" or "strategy for solving", each providing a slightly different nuance. Be sure to avoid misusing "solving" as a noun directly; instead, maintain the proper structure of "approach to solving".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

method for solving

Replaces "approach" with "method", emphasizing a specific procedure or technique.

way of solving

Substitutes "approach" with "way", indicating a general manner or means of addressing a problem.

strategy for solving

Uses "strategy" instead of "approach", suggesting a carefully planned series of actions.

technique for solving

Replaces "approach" with "technique", focusing on a specific skill or method used to find a solution.

means of solving

Emphasizes the resources or methods used to achieve a solution.

formula for solving

Implies a standardized or well-established method for solving a problem.

system for solving

Suggests a structured and organized method for addressing a problem.

avenue for solving

Presents solving as a path or direction to explore.

perspective on solving

Highlights the viewpoint or angle from which a problem is addressed.

tackling the solution

Implies the action of making determined efforts to deal with a problem or task.

FAQs

How can I use "approach to solving" in a sentence?

You can use "approach to solving" to describe a method or strategy for resolving an issue. For example, "Their "unconventional approach" to solving the problem yielded unexpected results."

What are some alternatives to "approach to solving"?

Alternatives include "method for solving", "way of solving", or "strategy for solving". Each emphasizes a slightly different aspect of problem-solving, such as procedure, manner, or planned actions.

Is it correct to say "approach of solving" instead of "approach to solving"?

No, the correct and idiomatic expression is "approach to solving". The preposition "to" is required to connect "approach" with the gerund "solving". Using "of" would be grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "approach to solving" and "solution for solving"?

"Approach to solving" refers to the method or strategy used, while a "solution" is the outcome or resolution itself. You wouldn't say "solution for solving"; instead, use "solution to the problem".