makeshift solution

USAGE SUMMARY

"makeshift solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a temporary solution to a problem, often one that does not fully address that problem. For example: "We had to come up with a makeshift solution to get around the broken machine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

This is at best a makeshift solution.

The New York Times

As a makeshift solution, the Zebrette were obliged to cover up some stripes with white tape.

The Guardian - Sport

It's a makeshift solution that barely clears up the problem of the legal system not seeing the children they have raised as their children.

The Guardian

The burn pits began as a makeshift solution in a war zone, and critics say they remained in place long after alternatives, like incinerators, could be used.

The New York Times

It was the sort of makeshift solution a United manager would employ in the final 20 minutes when a goal was desperately needed.

Independent

Public health officials and researchers from the American University of Beirut have warned that airborne toxin levels have grown exponentially, including a spike in carcinogens, as a result of dump burning – a tactic used by many municipalities as a makeshift solution.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"These are makeshift solutions to an enduring problem".

The New York Times

Pontiac also resisted makeshift solutions, like producing a front-drive GTO with a V-6 engine.

The New York Times

Whilst makeshift solutions are necessary, they create serious health and environmental dangers.

The Guardian

Such makeshift solutions led the Boston team to ask: How can we make an incubator for the developing world that will get fixed?

The New York Times - Health

We're running out of makeshift solutions".

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "makeshift solution" to describe a temporary fix or workaround, especially when highlighting the lack of a more permanent or ideal resolution.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "makeshift solution" as a long-term answer. Clearly indicate its temporary nature to manage expectations and avoid misleading your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "makeshift solution" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It refers to a temporary or improvised way to deal with a problem, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "makeshift solution" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a temporary or improvised fix. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correctly used in various contexts, especially in News & Media and Science. While not inherently negative, it implies a less-than-ideal approach, emphasizing the need for a more permanent resolution. Alternatives like "stopgap solution" or "temporary fix" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Understanding the implications and contexts of "makeshift solution" ensures clarity and accuracy in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stopgap solution

Implies it is a temporary fix until a better solution is found.

makeshift alternative

Highlights its role as a substitute or temporary option.

alternate solution

Indicates it is another possible but not necessarily ideal solution.

alternative solution

Suggests a different approach to resolving the issue, perhaps unconventional.

informal solution

Emphasizes the casual or unofficial nature of the resolution.

rudimentary solution

Highlights the basic and undeveloped nature of the solution.

impromptu solution

Underscores the unplanned and spontaneous nature of the solution.

tentative solution

Focuses on the experimental and uncertain nature of the solution.

primitive solution

Highlights the unsophisticated and underdeveloped nature of the solution.

surrogate solution

Emphasizes its role as a stand-in or replacement, likely temporary.

FAQs

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

You can use "makeshift solution" to describe a temporary or improvised fix. For example, "Due to the limited resources, we had to resort to a "makeshift solution" to address the problem."

What can I say instead of "makeshift solution"?

You can use alternatives like "stopgap solution", "temporary fix", or "workaround" depending on the context.

Is "makeshift solution" a negative term?

While "makeshift solution" often implies a lack of ideal resources or planning, it isn't inherently negative. It acknowledges a practical, albeit temporary, approach to resolving an issue.

What's the difference between "makeshift solution" and "ad hoc solution"?

Both terms describe solutions created for a specific, immediate need. A "makeshift solution" emphasizes improvisation with available resources, while "ad hoc solution" focuses on being created for a particular purpose or case.