must be solved

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "must be solved" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that a problem or issue requires a solution or resolution. Example: "The mathematical equation presented in the exam must be solved by the students within the given time limit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Crimes must be solved.

The New Yorker

The financial crisis must be solved immediately.

University of California, Berkeley

Then the buckling problem must be solved.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

Three unknowns must be solved: Did Jason kill Alicia?

The New York Times - Books

"Zimbabwe is in a crisis that must be solved".

The New York Times

These pose an important problem, which must be solved.

The New Yorker

"This is a political crisis which must be solved politically".

The Guardian - Business

It must be solved at the European level.

The Guardian

WHY do critics believe the crisis must be solved immediately?

The New York Times

The governing equations of this model must be solved numerically.

Chemical Engineering Science

Thus, a multi-objective problem must be solved.

Acta Astronautica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "must be solved", ensure the context clearly indicates what entity or person is responsible for providing the solution.

Common error

Avoid using "must be solved" excessively in passive constructions. Instead, consider active voice to clarify who should solve the problem and make the writing more direct. For example, instead of "The problem must be solved", write "Engineers must solve the problem."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "must be solved" functions as a modal passive construction. It indicates that a problem, issue, or question requires a resolution or solution. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, suggesting it adheres to standard English grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

0.02%

Social Media

0.08%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "must be solved" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that conveys the necessity of resolving a problem or issue. According to Ludwig AI, it’s correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academia. While versatile, overuse in passive voice should be avoided to maintain clarity and impact. Considering alternative phrases like "needs to be addressed" or "requires resolution" can help refine the tone and specificity of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

needs to be addressed

Focuses on the act of dealing with a problem, suggesting a starting point rather than a complete solution.

is imperative to resolve

Stresses the critical nature of finding a solution.

requires resolution

Highlights the necessity of finding a conclusive end to an issue.

is crucial to address

Emphasizes the importance of dealing with something, similar to 'needs to be addressed' but with a greater sense of urgency.

demands a solution

Emphasizes the urgency and importance of finding a fix.

must be rectified

Implies that something is wrong and needs to be corrected.

calls for an answer

Suggests that a specific question or problem requires a response or explanation.

warrants attention

Indicates that something deserves to be noticed and dealt with, although not necessarily solved completely.

begs for attention

Similar to 'warrants attention', but with a stronger sense of desperation and need.

presents a challenge

Highlights the difficulty involved in resolving the issue, shifting the focus to the process rather than the absolute necessity of a solution.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "must be solved" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "requires resolution", "demands a solution", or "is imperative to resolve".

What's a less forceful alternative to "must be solved"?

If you want to soften the tone, try using "needs to be addressed" or "warrants attention", which suggest the issue requires action without being as demanding.

Is it always appropriate to use "must be solved" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "must be solved" can sometimes sound overly assertive in academic writing. Consider using more nuanced language that acknowledges the complexities of research, such as "presents a challenge" or "requires further investigation".

What does it mean when something "must be solved"?

When something "must be solved", it means there's a problem, question, or issue that requires a resolution. It implies that finding a solution is essential or of high priority.