problem solving

USAGE SUMMARY

'problem solving' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to the process of finding solutions to problems. For example, "Through collaboration and problem solving, the team were able to come up with an efficient solution to the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Encourage collaborative problem solving.

Harvard Business Review

Problem solving is popular.

Harvard Business Review

Complex problem solving.

Columbia University

Focus on Problem Solving.

Stanford University

Problem solving dialogue.

Harvard University

2. Review Problem Solving.

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Problem solved.

The New York Times - Arts

Well, problem solved.

The New York Times

Hunger, pasta, problem solved.

The New York Times - Food

Problem solved, case closed.

The New Yorker

Problem solved?Not quite.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "problem solving" in contexts where analysis, creativity, and decision-making are involved in overcoming challenges.

Common error

Avoid using "problem solving" as a generic term. Instead, specify the context of the problem and the specific strategies employed to resolve it. For example, instead of saying 'good at problem solving', say 'skilled at solving complex engineering problems'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "problem solving" functions primarily as a noun, often used to describe a skill, process, or activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable. Examples show it modifying other nouns (e.g., "problem solving dialogue") or acting as a general descriptor.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "problem solving" is a grammatically sound and commonly used term across diverse fields, as verified by Ludwig AI. Functioning primarily as a noun, it denotes the process or skill of finding solutions to challenges. While applicable in both neutral and professional contexts, it's prevalent in academic, business, and news domains. To enhance clarity, specify the type of problem and the approach employed, avoiding overgeneralization. Alternatives like "issue resolution" or "conflict resolution" can add nuance to your writing. When showcasing problem-solving skills, provide concrete examples and quantifiable results to underscore your abilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

problem resolution

Focuses on the act of resolving a specific problem.

finding solutions

Highlights the act of discovering or creating solutions to problems.

issue resolution

Emphasizes resolving a specific issue or concern.

conflict resolution

Specifically addresses solving problems arising from conflicts.

troubleshooting

Implies identifying and solving technical or mechanical problems.

decision making

Involves selecting a course of action to address a problem.

critical thinking

Highlights the analytical skills needed for effective problem solving.

creative thinking

Focuses on generating innovative solutions to problems.

analytical skills

Highlights the ability to analyze information to identify and solve problems.

strategic thinking

Addresses problem solving from a long-term, planning perspective.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "problem solving" in a resume?

Instead of simply stating "problem solving" as a skill, provide specific examples of situations where you successfully applied problem-solving techniques. Quantify your results whenever possible to demonstrate the impact of your actions. For example, 'Implemented a new inventory management system that reduced stockouts by 15% through effective "problem solving skills"'.

What are some alternative phrases to "problem solving" that I can use in my writing?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "issue resolution", "conflict resolution", "troubleshooting", or "finding solutions" to add variety and precision to your writing.

Is "problem solving" a skill or a process?

"Problem solving" can be both. It's a skill that individuals develop and refine over time, involving abilities like critical thinking and analysis. It's also a process that involves identifying a problem, analyzing its causes, generating potential solutions, and implementing and evaluating those solutions.

What's the difference between "problem solving" and "decision making"?

"Problem solving" is a broader process that includes identifying and analyzing a problem, while "decision making" is often a component of problem solving, involving the selection of a specific course of action from available alternatives. Decision making is a piece in the problem solving puzzle.