definitive solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definitive solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe a solution that is considered to be definitive, or final and authoritative. For example, “The committee offered a definitive solution to their budgeting issue.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"But we need to convey the message that hybrids are not the definitive solution".

The New York Times

No, this problem requires a more definitive solution: ending the secrecy around the machines.

The New York Times - Magazine

I do not bring with me today a definitive solution to the problems of war.

The Guardian

They are not meant to provide a definitive solution or to resolve debate.

The New York Times - Arts

Williams's co-author, Humphrey Price, believes that despite having come across a definitive solution, the mystery is set to endure.

The Guardian

The definitive solution to prevent a return of the Zika epidemic is, of course, a broadly protective vaccine.

The New Yorker

I could arbitrarily make up a definitive solution, but that seems like the most unethical move possible.

The New York Times - Magazine

He spoke of the "difficult questions about the relationship between war and peace," adding, "I do not bring with me today a definitive solution".

The New Yorker

The agreement supposedly offers a definitive solution to the vexed question of how far the "ancestral domain" of southern Muslims extends.

The Economist

Dr. Weaire is not a mathematician, and though he tediously created actual foams one bubble at a time to try to show that his structure was the definitive solution, he could not prove it.

The New York Times - Sports

A statement from Tsipras's office said: "The prime minister presented [Merkel, Hollande and Juncker] with Greece's proposal for a mutually beneficial agreement that will give a definitive solution and not a postponement of addressing the problem".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "definitive solution", ensure the context warrants a sense of finality and authority. Avoid using it for temporary fixes or ongoing debates.

Common error

Be cautious about labeling something a "definitive solution" if it's still subject to change or refinement. Overstating its finality can undermine credibility if future adjustments are needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitive solution" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "definitive" modifies the noun "solution". As supported by Ludwig AI, it describes a resolution that is final, complete, and authoritative, aiming to resolve an issue conclusively.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definitive solution" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that indicates a final, authoritative, and complete resolution to a problem. Ludwig AI confirms its accuracy and usability. It finds application across various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. While versatile, it's important to avoid overstating the finality of a solution if future adjustments may be needed. Alternatives like "final resolution" or "ultimate answer" can be used depending on the nuance desired. The phrase is best used when the context warrants a sense of completeness and lasting impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Final resolution

Replaces "solution" with "resolution", emphasizing the act of resolving an issue completely.

Absolute resolution

Highlights the completeness and certainty of the resolution.

Ultimate answer

Substitutes "definitive" with "ultimate" and "solution" with "answer", highlighting a conclusive response.

Conclusive remedy

Uses "conclusive" instead of "definitive" and "remedy" in place of "solution", focusing on a healing or corrective measure.

Lasting solution

Emphasizes the quality of standing the test of time.

Decisive approach

Replaces "definitive solution" with "decisive approach", suggesting a firm and effective method.

Optimal resolution

Focuses on the best or most favorable outcome

Complete fix

Emphasizes a thorough and total correction using simpler language.

Permanent cure

Implies a lasting and irreversible resolution, often used in medical contexts.

Enduring fix

Focuses on the long-lasting nature of the solution.

FAQs

How can I use "definitive solution" in a sentence?

You can use "definitive solution" to describe a resolution that is considered final and authoritative. For instance, "The new policy is seen as a "definitive solution" to the ongoing dispute".

What are some alternatives to "definitive solution"?

Alternatives include "final resolution", "ultimate answer", or "conclusive remedy" depending on the specific context you are using it in.

Is there a difference between a "definitive solution" and a "temporary solution"?

Yes, a "definitive solution" is intended to be final and lasting, while a "temporary solution" is only meant to address the problem in the short term. They are opposites in their intent and duration.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the term "definitive solution"?

The term "definitive solution" is appropriate in contexts where a problem has been thoroughly addressed and resolved completely, such as in legal settlements, medical treatments, or policy implementations. However, be cautious of using this expression to prevent "overstatement".