solve puzzles

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "solve puzzles" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of finding solutions to problems or challenges presented in the form of puzzles, whether in games, educational contexts, or recreational activities. Example: "In her free time, she loves to solve puzzles, especially crosswords and Sudoku."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Inventors solve puzzles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I like to solve puzzles.

The New York Times

Do you like to solve puzzles?

The New York Times - Arts

From an early age, I loved to solve puzzles.

The New York Times - Science

To stop him, Guybrush has to solve puzzles.

The New York Times - Tech

New techniques, such as the use of digital photography, help compare variations and solve puzzles.

The Economist

Not everyone is a speed solver, and not everyone is interested in watching people solve puzzles.

The New York Times

Along the way, they solve puzzles and explore the remnants of a forgotten civilization.

The New Yorker

"What about this interests you so deeply?" "How to solve puzzles," he said.

The New Yorker

He can also use his x-ray vision to see through walls and solve puzzles.

The Guardian - Tech

But I really think that what drives scientific discovery is the quest to solve puzzles.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing skills or hobbies, use "solve puzzles" to convey an interest in analytical thinking and problem-solving.

Common error

While "solve puzzles" is generally acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like "resolve complex problems" in academic or business writing to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solve puzzles" functions as a verb phrase, where "solve" is a transitive verb and "puzzles" is its direct object. Ludwig AI confirms that it describes the action of finding solutions to problems designed as puzzles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

23%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "solve puzzles" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the activity of finding solutions to puzzles. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's widely applicable across various contexts, including news, media, games, and education. While its register is generally neutral, more formal alternatives may be preferred in academic or professional settings. The phrase enjoys frequent usage, particularly in news and media, reflecting its broad relevance to problem-solving and analytical thinking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

work out puzzles

This alternative suggests a more gradual and effortful process of finding a solution.

figure out puzzles

This phrase implies a process of understanding or discovering the solution to a puzzle.

resolve puzzles

This suggests a more formal and definitive end to the puzzling situation.

crack puzzles

Implies solving a puzzle quickly and efficiently.

decipher puzzles

This implies interpreting a coded or complex puzzle.

untangle puzzles

This alternative emphasizes the act of separating and clarifying a complicated puzzle.

complete puzzles

Focuses on finishing the puzzle, rather than the process of solving.

conquer puzzles

Suggests overcoming a challenging puzzle with skill and determination.

master puzzles

Implies gaining a high level of proficiency in solving puzzles.

address puzzles

This alternative suggests taking action to deal with or solve puzzles.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "solve puzzles"?

You can use alternatives like "work out puzzles", "figure out puzzles", or "resolve puzzles" depending on the context.

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

You can use "solve puzzles" to describe an activity or skill, such as, "She enjoys her free time to solve puzzles" or "The game requires players to solve puzzles to advance."

Is it correct to say "solving puzzles" instead of "solve puzzles"?

Yes, "solving puzzles" is the gerund form and is correct. It's often used as a noun, such as in the sentence, "Solving puzzles is a great way to improve your cognitive skills."

What is the difference between "solve puzzles" and "solve mysteries"?

"Solve puzzles" generally refers to finding solutions to structured problems with defined rules, while "solve mysteries" involves uncovering hidden or unknown facts and circumstances.