plausible solution

USAGE SUMMARY

"plausible solution" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a proposed solution to a problem that seems reasonable, or likely to work. For example, "We have been discussing various solutions to the issue, and it looks like we may have arrived at a plausible solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a plausible solution, though economists point to problems.

The New York Times

Neither Becker nor Martin has an entirely plausible solution.

The New Yorker

In fact, he offers the only plausible solution to it.

The Economist

Green roofs offer a plausible solution for climate adaptation.

Landscape and Urban Planning

The only plausible solution is for regions and athletic conferences to adopt new, more sensible policies.

The New York Times

If this didn't work, there would be only one other plausible solution: computer rankings.

The New York Times - Sports

Finally, there's a denouement replete with surprise, excitement and a plausible solution.

The Guardian - Books

The problem is structural, and so far, literally no one has proposed a plausible solution.

University of California, Berkeley

Is it possible for cultivation to serve as a plausible solution to overexploitation?

Columbia University

It makes the art fair the most plausible solution of the future.

The New York Times - Arts

Since any plausible solution will hurt, neither party will take sole responsibility.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a "plausible solution", ensure you provide sufficient evidence or reasoning to support its feasibility and effectiveness. Avoid stating it as the only solution without considering alternatives.

Common error

Avoid presenting a solution as "plausible" if you lack concrete data or logical reasoning to back it up. Overselling a solution's plausibility without adequate support can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "plausible solution" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "plausible" modifies the noun "solution". It describes a potential resolution to a problem that appears reasonable or likely to succeed. This aligns with Ludwig's examples that demonstrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

36%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "plausible solution" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a potential resolution to a problem that seems reasonable and likely to succeed. Ludwig confirms its widespread use across various domains, particularly in News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, it's important to provide supporting evidence to enhance credibility and avoid overstating the solution's certainty. Remember, a "plausible solution" is not necessarily the best or only option, but a viable candidate worthy of consideration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

credible solution

Emphasizes the believability or trustworthiness of the solution.

tenable solution

Highlights that the solution is defensible and can be maintained or justified.

reasonable solution

Focuses on the solution being logical and sensible.

believable solution

Similar to "credible solution", stressing the acceptance of the solution as true.

feasible solution

Indicates that the solution is practical and capable of being implemented successfully.

workable solution

Suggests the solution can be put into practice effectively.

viable solution

Indicates the solution is capable of succeeding or functioning.

realistic solution

Stresses the solution is grounded in reality and achievable.

attainable solution

Focuses on the achievability of the proposed solution.

practicable solution

Highlights the solution's suitability for practical use or implementation.

FAQs

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

You can use "plausible solution" to describe a potential answer to a problem that seems reasonable or likely to work. For example, "After considering several options, we identified a "plausible solution" that addresses the key issues."

What are some alternatives to saying "plausible solution"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "credible solution", "reasonable solution", or "feasible solution".

Is there a difference between "plausible solution" and "ideal solution"?

"Plausible solution" suggests a solution that is believable and potentially workable, while "ideal solution" refers to the best possible solution, which may not always be realistic or achievable. A "plausible solution" is more grounded in reality.

When is it appropriate to use the term "plausible solution"?

Use "plausible solution" when you want to describe a potential fix to a problem that appears to be both reasonable and likely to succeed, based on the available information. It's suitable when you are not claiming it's the best or only option, but a good candidate.