devise a solution

USAGE SUMMARY

"devise a solution" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to come up with or create a solution to a problem. You can use it in any situation where you need to find or create a solution or answer to a specific issue or challenge. Example: The team was struggling to meet their project deadline, so they called a meeting to devise a solution. After brainstorming for several hours, they were able to come up with a plan to prioritize tasks and meet the deadline.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

The Fed then ordered Rust to devise a solution.

The New York Times

The council spent about $1 million the last few years to devise a solution.

The New York Times

At best, this third rescue may buy time to devise a solution that allays investors' fears.

The New York Times

Renzi is credited with helping devise a solution, creating a backstop fund – known as Atlante – for the industry.

The Guardian

Mr. Pataki has said that he, too, wants to simplify the school aid formula, though he insists that elected lawmakers, not a judge, should devise a solution.

The New York Times

Mr. Bush said he would work with Congress next year to devise "a solution" that reduced disparities in insurance coverage without significantly increasing health costs.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Terry, the coach, devised a solution.

The New York Times - Sports

Devising a solution required some imagination.

The New York Times

Eric Kokish from Toronto devised a solution.

The New York Times

Finally, Lyle Barton of the exhibition department devised a solution.

The New York Times

So Miller devised a solution, which he calls the China Beige Book.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "devise a solution", consider the context. It's best used when the situation requires creativity or innovation to overcome a challenge. Be sure to follow the verb with a clear and actionable plan.

Common error

Avoid making the "solution" too complex. Ensure that the devised solution is practical and implementable within the given constraints. A simple, effective solution is often better than an elaborate one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devise a solution" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the action of creating or formulating a way to solve a problem or address a challenge. This is consistent with Ludwig AI's assessment, which affirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

15%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "devise a solution" is a common and grammatically correct way to express the act of creating or formulating a solution to a problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, and science. Alternative phrases, such as "formulate a solution" or "develop a solution", offer subtle nuances in meaning. When using this phrase, ensure the devised solution is practical and clearly articulated. Avoid overcomplicating the "solution" to ensure its implementability and effectiveness. Overall, "devise a solution" is a valuable tool for describing problem-solving in a wide range of situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

formulate a solution

Emphasizes a more structured or methodical approach to creating a solution.

develop a solution

Suggests a gradual and detailed process of creating a solution.

create a solution

A more general term for bringing a solution into existence.

find a solution

Focuses on discovering an existing solution rather than creating one.

work out a solution

Implies problem-solving and effort to arrive at a resolution.

contrive a solution

Suggests ingenuity or inventiveness in creating a solution, possibly in a difficult situation.

discover a solution

Highlights the act of uncovering a solution that already exists.

conceive a solution

Focuses on the mental process of imagining or thinking up a solution.

evolve a solution

Suggests that the solution emerges gradually over time.

brainstorm a solution

Refers to generating ideas in a group setting to find a solution.

FAQs

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

You can use "devise a solution" to indicate the act of creating a plan or method to solve a problem. For instance, "The engineers had to devise a solution to prevent the bridge from collapsing".

What can I say instead of "devise a solution"?

You can use alternatives like "formulate a solution", "develop a solution", or "create a solution" depending on the context.

Is it better to "devise a solution" or "find a solution"?

The choice depends on the context. "Devise a solution" implies creating a new solution, while "find a solution" suggests discovering an existing one.

What are the steps involved in "devising a solution"?

Common steps include identifying the problem, brainstorming potential solutions, evaluating the options, and creating a plan to implement the chosen solution. Iteration and testing are also often crucial.