find a solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "find a solution" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to encourage someone to come up with a response or answer to a problem. For example, "If we want to end this conflict, we need to find a solution quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They must find a solution".

Independent

Can Washington find a solution?

The New York Times

We have to find a solution".

The New York Times

"We're going to find a solution".

The New Yorker

"Find a solution, Cauchetier," he said.

The New Yorker

They have to find a solution.

The New York Times - Sports

We will try to find a solution.

Independent

So I had to find a solution".

The New York Times

We desperately need to find a solution".

The Guardian - Sport

We hope to find a solution".

The New York Times - Sports

We will find a solution, for sure".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "find a solution", ensure that the context clearly defines the problem you are trying to solve. For example, instead of saying "We need to find a solution", specify: "We need to find a solution to reduce carbon emissions".

Common error

Avoid using "find a solution" without specifying what the problem is. Saying "Let's find a solution" is less effective than saying "Let's find a solution to this budget shortfall", because without proper context, the statement is too vague to be useful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "find a solution" typically functions as a verb phrase, often used in an imperative or infinitive form. It describes the action of discovering or creating a resolution to a problem. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is widely used in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "find a solution" is a grammatically sound and exceedingly common expression used to convey the necessity of resolving a problem. As validated by Ludwig, it fits seamlessly in numerous contexts, ranging from news reports and scientific discussions to business settings and everyday conversations. While versatile, it's most impactful when the problem it aims to address is clearly articulated. Alternatives like "identify a solution" or "develop a solution" can add nuance depending on whether the focus is on recognition or creation. In conclusion, "find a solution" is a practical and widely accepted phrase that remains a staple in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Come up with a solution

Implies a more creative and spontaneous generation of a solution.

Figure out a solution

Implies a more informal and intuitive approach to finding a solution.

Identify a solution

Focuses more on the cognitive aspect of recognizing a solution that already exists.

Work out a solution

Focuses on the effort and problem-solving involved in reaching a solution.

Discover a solution

Emphasizes the act of uncovering or revealing a solution, often implying it was hidden or unknown.

Devise a solution

Suggests a more inventive and strategic approach to creating a solution.

Develop a solution

Highlights the process of creating or building a solution from scratch.

Unearth a solution

Implies that the solution exists and needs to be revealed, often after some investigation.

Determine a solution

Suggests a more formal and decisive process of choosing a solution from a set of options.

Obtain a solution

Focuses on the act of acquiring or gaining access to a solution that may already exist.

FAQs

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

You can use "find a solution" when you want to emphasize the need to resolve a problem or overcome a challenge. For example, "The team needs to "find a solution" quickly to meet the project deadline."

What are some alternatives to "find a solution"?

Alternatives to "find a solution" include "identify a solution", "develop a solution", or "come up with a solution", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "find a solution" or "finding a solution"?

The choice between "find a solution" and "finding a solution" depends on the sentence structure. "Find a solution" is typically used as an imperative or infinitive, while "finding a solution" functions as a gerund or present participle. For example, "We must "find a solution"" versus "Finding a solution is our top priority."

What's the difference between "find a solution" and "solve a problem"?

"Find a solution" emphasizes the process of discovering or creating a resolution, while "solve a problem" focuses on the act of successfully resolving an existing issue. They are often interchangeable, but ""find a solution"" might imply more exploration, and "solve a problem" suggests a more direct action.