solve the puzzle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "solve the puzzle" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to describe an action of deciphering a tricky problem or an activity of working out the solution to a puzzle. For example, "The students worked together to solve the puzzle, and eventually they managed to come up with the correct answer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You solve the puzzle you create".

The New York Times - Arts

But that doesn't seem to completely solve the puzzle.

Independent

Only now are scientists finally starting to solve the puzzle.

The New York Times - Science

Can you rearrange the panels to solve the puzzle?

The Guardian - Tech

The subjects have up to thirty seconds to solve the puzzle.

The New Yorker

The OBR never tells us what suddenly changes to solve the puzzle.

Independent

However, it comes with a cheat sheet to help stumped visitors solve the puzzle.

The New York Times

Ventris' determination to solve the puzzle of this peculiar writing dated from that time.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Once you solve the puzzle use this page to access the Master Theorem.

The New York Times

Approximately 50 books were published describing how to solve the puzzle of Rubik's Cube.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Edgar Martinez said the Mariners would have to solve the puzzle the Yankees pitcher pose.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when choosing "solve the puzzle". It implies an intellectual challenge rather than a practical task.

Common error

Avoid using "solve the puzzle" when a simpler phrase like "find the answer" or "fix the problem" would be more appropriate. Overusing it in mundane situations can sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solve the puzzle" functions as a verb phrase with a direct object. It describes the action of finding a solution to something that is intricate or perplexing, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "solve the puzzle" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of finding a solution to a complex problem. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is widely used in contexts such as news, science, and encyclopedias, and suggests that it is most appropriate when discussing intellectual challenges. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, its implication of complexity means that it is better suited for professional or formal communications than for casual conversation. When using this phrase, consider whether a simpler alternative, such as "find the answer", might be more appropriate for the context. Authoritative sources frequently using the expression include The New York Times, The Guardian, and The New Yorker.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

figure out the solution

A more general alternative that emphasizes finding an answer to a problem.

decipher the mystery

Emphasizes the act of decoding something complex or obscure, implying a hidden meaning.

work out the answer

Similar to figuring out, but suggests a more methodical and effortful process.

resolve the enigma

Similar to decipher, but suggests a more profound or perplexing problem.

unravel the problem

Suggests a complex problem that needs to be disentangled or simplified.

crack the code

Focuses on breaking a specific type of secret or system, often involving a key or pattern.

untangle the web

Evokes a sense of complexity and interconnectedness, implying that the problem involves multiple intertwined elements.

get to the bottom of it

An idiomatic alternative emphasizing a thorough investigation to find the root cause.

find a resolution

Focuses on achieving a state of settlement or conclusion to a problem.

address the issue

A broader phrase that refers to taking action to deal with a problem, not necessarily solving it completely.

FAQs

How can I use "solve the puzzle" in a sentence?

You can use "solve the puzzle" to describe finding a solution to a complex problem, for example: "The detective needed to "decipher the mystery" before the end of the week."

What can I say instead of "solve the puzzle"?

Alternatives include "figure out the solution", "work out the answer", or "resolve the enigma", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "solve the puzzle" in a formal context?

Yes, "solve the puzzle" is appropriate in formal contexts, especially when referring to intellectual challenges or complex problems. However, consider alternatives like "address the issue" for a more neutral tone.

What's the difference between "solve the puzzle" and "find a solution"?

"Solve the puzzle" implies a more intricate and intellectually stimulating challenge, while "find a solution" is a more general term for resolving any kind of problem.