fix a bug

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fix a bug" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of software development or troubleshooting to refer to resolving an error or issue in a program or system. Example: "The team worked late into the night to fix a bug that was causing the application to crash."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

The numbers overestimate the proportion of rejected bug fixes because, while multiple commits often represent multiple attempts to fix a bug (i.e., a commit fixes problems with a previous commit), sometimes they are the result of a developer splitting a bug fix into multiple small commits to facilitate peer review.

Journal of Software Engineering Research and Development

She might even fix a bug.

Stanford University

"This morning, we temporarily took down the Facebook site to fix a bug we identified earlier today.

The Guardian

Hopefully this will fix a bug (on Vista, UAC off, non-protected install) where apps fail to attach to shmem.

University of California, Berkeley

This critical patch will fix a bug that prevented some new employees and affiliates from claiming CalNet accounts.

University of California, Berkeley

"This morning, we temporarily took down the Facebook site to fix a bug we identified earlier today," a spokesperson said at the time.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Fixed a bug in the junction connecting step.

Columbia University

This release fixes a bug regarding multi-hits.

Stanford University

Also fixed a bug with the display of "max_intron" and "min_intron" SpliceMap 3.3.1.2 fixes some bugs and adresses compatibility issues.

Stanford University

This release fixes a bug involving reading strings and building shared libraries under Windows.

University of California, Berkeley

Fixed a bug in cvglmnet.m for multiresponse Gaussian model, pointed out by Sharath Chandra Guntuku.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about software development, use "fix a bug" to clearly communicate the act of resolving a specific error in the code. This phrase is widely understood and accepted in technical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "fix a bug" when referring to broader system malfunctions. Instead, opt for phrases like "resolve a system error" or "address a technical issue" to maintain precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fix a bug" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun phrase. It indicates the action of correcting or repairing an error. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples where this phrase is used to describe resolving issues in software or systems.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

34%

Science

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fix a bug" is a common phrase used to describe the process of resolving an error, typically in software or technical systems. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, including news, academia, and science. While generally neutral in register, more formal alternatives like "resolve an issue" or "correct a flaw" may be preferred in certain settings. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the act of correcting a specific error and avoid overgeneralization to broader system malfunctions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolve an issue

This alternative is more general and can apply to various types of problems, not just software bugs.

correct a flaw

This alternative emphasizes the imperfection or defect being addressed.

eliminate the error

This alternative emphasizes the complete removal of the error.

debug the system

This option is specific to software and programming contexts, focusing on identifying and removing errors.

patch the software

This alternative is highly specific to software updates and quick fixes.

rectify an error

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the act of making something right.

troubleshoot the problem

This option focuses on the process of identifying and resolving the underlying cause of the issue.

remedy the situation

This option is broader, referring to correcting a general problem or undesirable state.

repair the defect

This phrase is more suitable when referring to a physical defect or a flaw in a product.

amend the fault

This is a formal way of saying correcting a mistake, with a focus on fixing a failing.

FAQs

What are some common synonyms for "fix a bug"?

Common synonyms include "resolve an issue", "correct a flaw", or "debug the system". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "fix a bug" in formal writing?

While "fix a bug" is widely understood, in extremely formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "rectify an error" for a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "fix a bug" and "fix a problem"?

"Fix a bug" is typically used in software or technical contexts to describe resolving an error in code or a system. "Fix a problem" is a more general phrase applicable to any kind of issue or difficulty.

How do I use "fix a bug" in a sentence?

You can use it like this: "The developers worked tirelessly to "fix a bug" that was causing the application to crash."