solution to

USAGE SUMMARY

"solution to" is a perfectly valid and commonly used phrase used in written English.
You can use it to introduce an answer to a question or problem. For example: "The solution to the energy crisis is to develop renewable energy sources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His solution to unemployment?

The Economist

A solution to racism?

Independent

Her solution to the crisis?

The New York Times

A solution to global warming?

The New Yorker

The solution to the problem?

The New York Times

Solution to Pollution: $250,000.

The New Yorker

One solution to this problem?

The New York Times

His solution to corruption?

The New York Times

"That's one solution to our problems".

The New York Times

Blame is an ineffective solution to problems.

Independent

I find no solution to that dilemma.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider more specific and impactful alternatives, like "answer to" or "remedy for", to add nuance to your writing.

Common error

While grammatically correct, repeatedly using "solution to" can make writing sound monotonous. Vary your phrasing by using alternatives like "approach to" or "key to" to improve readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solution to" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically adjectival, modifying a noun by specifying what problem the solution addresses. As Ludwig examples demonstrate, it connects a proposed resolution with the issue it intends to resolve.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

27%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "solution to" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a resolution or answer to a problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted in written English. While versatile, varying your phrasing with alternatives like "answer to" or "approach to" can enhance your writing style. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, wiki entries, and scientific publications, maintaining a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Remember to clearly identify the problem being addressed when using this phrase for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

answer to

Focuses on a direct response or resolution to a specific question or problem.

key to

Highlights the most important element in achieving a desired outcome.

remedy for

Emphasizes a cure or fix for an ailment or undesirable situation.

approach to

Suggests a method or strategy for dealing with a problem or situation.

way out of

Implies a means of escaping a difficult or problematic situation.

resolution for

Focuses on a formal decision or agreement to solve a problem.

fix for

Indicates a quick or temporary solution to a problem.

antidote to

Suggests a counteracting agent or measure to neutralize a negative effect.

cure for

Implies a complete and permanent solution to a disease or problem.

treatment for

Focuses on a process or therapy to alleviate or resolve a problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "solution to" to introduce a resolution or answer to a specific problem. For example, "The "solution to" the energy crisis is to develop renewable energy sources."

What are some alternatives to "solution to"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "answer to", "key to", or "remedy for". Each of these has a slightly different nuance.

Is there a difference between "solution to" and "solution for"?

"Solution to" is generally used when referring to resolving a problem or issue (e.g., "solution to" the problem). "Solution for" is less common but can be used when talking about a remedy designed for a particular situation (e.g., a "solution for" cleaning glass). "Solution to" is preferred.

Can "solution to" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "solution to" is appropriate for formal writing, but consider varying your phrasing by using alternatives like "approach to" or "resolution for" to avoid repetitiveness.