solved the riddle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "solved the riddle" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of finding the answer to a riddle or puzzle. Example: "After hours of thinking, she finally solved the riddle and revealed the secret message."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

So how has Univision solved the riddle of Friday?

The New York Times

After the show Mr. Harnoncourt solved the riddle.

The New York Times - Arts

When I came home, however, the radio solved the riddle.

The New Yorker

Oedipus solved the riddle, and the Sphinx killed herself.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Lendl solved the riddle after that, finishing with eight Grand Slam titles.

The New York Times - Sports

Now British experts think they have solved the riddle of the king's death.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Mr. Tiffin challenges his class to solve the riddle on their apple orchard visit.

The New York Times - Books

It doesn't solve the riddle, either, but that's not Stossel's fault.

The New Yorker

We might solve the riddle of the mysterious dark matter that pervades the universe.

The Guardian

He hopes intensive treatment will solve the riddle of the ailment.

The Guardian - Sport

Baltacha, a 19-year-old ranked 157th, is still trying to solve the riddle.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when choosing this phrase. While widely understood, ensure it aligns with the tone and register of your writing. For example, in a formal academic paper, you might prefer "resolved the enigma".

Common error

Avoid using "solved the riddle" in situations where a simpler, more direct term like "answered the question" or "resolved the problem" would be more appropriate. Overusing figurative language can detract from clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solved the riddle" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the completion of an action. Ludwig shows that it describes the successful resolution of a perplexing question or problem. It is often used to denote the overcoming of a challenge that requires insight or intelligence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

14%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "solved the riddle" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the successful resolution of a perplexing problem or mystery. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is commonly used in news, science, and general contexts. While highly adaptable, choosing more specific terms like "resolved the issue" may be more appropriate in certain formal settings. The examples from Ludwig highlight its frequent use in diverse scenarios. It carries a neutral tone and is widely understood, emphasizing intellectual achievement and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

found the answer

A straightforward expression indicating the discovery of a solution to a question or problem.

figured out the puzzle

Highlights the successful completion of a challenge requiring careful thought and problem-solving skills.

unraveled the mystery

Focuses on the process of disentangling a complex situation or problem to reveal its solution.

deciphered the enigma

Emphasizes the act of interpreting or understanding something obscure or puzzling.

cracked the code

Implies a breakthrough in understanding something that was previously concealed or difficult to access.

resolved the issue

Focuses on the successful management and conclusion of a problem or conflict.

got to the bottom of

Suggests a thorough investigation leading to the discovery of the underlying cause or truth.

penetrated the secret

Conveys a sense of overcoming obstacles to reveal hidden information or understanding.

addressed the question

Highlights a response to an enquiry.

understood the situation

Indicates a comprehensive grasp of the circumstances, often implying a solution or course of action.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone "solved the riddle"?

Saying someone "solved the riddle" means they have found the answer to a puzzling question, problem, or mystery. It implies a successful resolution of something complex or confusing.

What can I say instead of "solved the riddle"?

You can use alternatives like "figured out the puzzle", "unraveled the mystery", or "deciphered the enigma" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "solved the riddle" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "solved the riddle" is generally acceptable for formal writing, but consider whether a more precise or academic term might be more suitable depending on the context. Phrases like "resolved the issue" or "addressed the question" may sometimes be preferable.

How is "solved the riddle" different from "answered the question"?

"Solved the riddle" implies a more complex and puzzling problem than simply "answered the question". A riddle typically requires cleverness or insight to solve, whereas a question might have a straightforward answer.