solve a case

USAGE SUMMARY

"solve a case" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to solving a situation or problem that requires analysis and problem-solving skills. For example: "The detectives were determined to solve this case as quickly as possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

The algorithm can solve a case.

The New Yorker

One even had Holmes employed by an American railroad baron to solve a case in Minnesota.

The New York Times - Books

A detective can only solve a case once he's been suspended.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This time, Bernie Gunther must solve a case for propaganda minister Goebbels – or else.

The Guardian - Books

Quirks in 'Oumuamua's path through the Solar System helped researchers solve a case of mistaken identity.

Nature

And a good detective's hunch is 100 times more likely to solve a case than a well-meaning psychic's visitation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

"Every detective dreams of solving a case like this," Chief Reznick said.

The New York Times

On $\exists \forall \exists$ Solving: A Case Study on Automated Synthesis of Magic Card Tricks.

University of California, Berkeley

IN a filthy, dank labyrinth of rooms below the streets of the East End, Sherlock Holmes was solving a case.

The New York Times

The Memphis series is like a slower version of "C.S.I.," driven by the methodical, painstaking process of solving a case.

The New York Times - Arts

To watch good lawyers solving a case is like listening to someone play an instrument with great skill".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "solve a case" when referring to investigations in crime, medicine, or any scenario requiring deduction and problem-solving. For example, "The detective worked tirelessly to solve the case."

Common error

While "solve a case" is widely applicable, avoid overuse in casual conversations where simpler terms like "figure out" or "resolve" might be more appropriate. For example, instead of "I need to solve the case of the missing cookies," consider "I need to figure out where the cookies went."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solve a case" functions as a verb phrase where "solve" is a transitive verb requiring an object ("a case"). It indicates the action of finding a solution to a specific problem or investigation. Ludwig AI confirms that "solve a case" is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "solve a case" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase, as determined by Ludwig AI. It describes the act of resolving an investigation or problem that requires analysis and deduction. While versatile, it's best used in neutral to professional contexts, avoiding overuse in overly casual situations. Alternative phrases like "resolve a problem" or "crack a mystery" can provide stylistic variation. Numerous examples from authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian demonstrate its widespread applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolve a problem

Focuses on finding a solution to a general issue, rather than a specific investigation.

crack a mystery

Implies solving something enigmatic or puzzling, often with a hint of suspense.

unravel a puzzle

Suggests a complex problem that requires careful analysis and deduction.

figure out a solution

Emphasizes the process of finding a resolution through thought and effort.

work out the answer

Indicates a more mathematical or logical approach to finding a solution.

find the key to the problem

Suggests discovering the central element that unlocks the solution.

get to the bottom of something

Focuses on uncovering the true cause or nature of a situation.

decipher a situation

Implies interpreting a complex or confusing scenario to understand it.

untangle a situation

Suggests simplifying a complicated or confusing state of affairs.

get on top of a problem

Emphasizes gaining control over a challenging issue.

FAQs

How can I use "solve a case" in a sentence?

You can use "solve a case" when referring to resolving an investigation or problem that requires analysis and problem-solving. For example, "The detective worked diligently to solve the case."

What are some alternatives to "solve a case"?

You can use alternatives like "resolve a problem", "crack a mystery", or "figure out a solution" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "solving a case" instead of "solve a case"?

Yes, "solving a case" is the gerund form and can be used as a noun or part of a continuous verb tense. For example, "Solving a case requires patience" or "They are solving a case."

What kind of cases can you "solve a case"?

The phrase "solve a case" can refer to a wide range of situations that require investigation and resolution, including criminal cases, medical mysteries, or even complex business problems.