solving

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'solving' is correct and usable in written English.
It is a present participle that typically forms part of the continuous form of a verb. For example, you can use it in a sentence such as, "She is always solving challenging puzzles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But: "I'm open to compromise, I'm open to new ideas, I'm committed to solving our fiscal challenge.

The Guardian

While funding on this scale could go a long way to solving some of the world's biggest problems, in this case it will take more than money to make a real and lasting difference.

The Guardian

I think if we can solve food education then we are part of the way to solving food poverty".

The Guardian

Data scientists need to be kept at the forefront of solving the most difficult problems the business faces.

The Guardian

"And I always enjoyed science and problem solving so, for me, from a very early age it was a career choice that appealed".

The Guardian - Money

People came on board because I truly am an independent, focused on the things political parties should be focused on, which is infrastructure and solving local issues.

The Guardian

Other new acquaintances are shown solving Rubik's cubes together, and duetting on the violin.

The Guardian - Music

Enduring constitutions nevertheless require three essential things: first, a general recognition that there is a problem that needs solving; second, a shared willingness to produce a shared outcome; and, third, a degree of readiness and goodwill to make that outcome a lasting settlement.

The Guardian - Opinion

Levine said: "Solutions might change over time but as long as the problem exists it's worth solving it".

The Guardian

While Levine didn't go into detail about the mistakes he made establishing Waze, he says that entrepreneurs shouldn't be afraid of making them: "The faster that we make them, the better that we are at solving them.

The Guardian

Andy Smith, a teenager from New Jersey, carries a handkerchief – on which his mother embroidered a Rubik's Cube – to wipe the sweat from his hands before he begins solving.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "solving", ensure the context clearly indicates what problem or challenge is being addressed. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "solving" with abstract nouns that don't represent concrete problems. For example, instead of "solving happiness", consider "achieving happiness" or "finding happiness".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "solving" is that of a present participle, often forming part of a continuous verb tense. As Ludwig AI explains, it modifies nouns or verbs, describing an ongoing action or process related to finding a solution. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

29%

Science

29%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "solving" functions as a present participle, frequently used to describe the action of finding a solution to a problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and versatile, fitting diverse contexts from news reports to business discussions. Its prevalence in authoritative sources like The Guardian and The Economist underscores its widespread acceptance. When writing, ensure that "solving" is paired with concrete problems and challenges for clarity. Alternatives like "resolving" or "addressing" can be considered for nuanced meanings. Remember that this word choice is more than suitable, and you are on the right track.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolving

Implies a more definitive conclusion or end to a problem.

addressing

Focuses more on the act of dealing with something, often a problem.

tackling

Suggests a direct and forceful approach to a problem.

working out

Emphasizes the process of finding a solution through effort.

figuring out

Highlights the cognitive aspect of understanding and finding a solution.

sorting out

Implies organizing or clarifying a situation to resolve issues.

deciphering

Involves interpreting or understanding something complex or obscure.

ironing out

Focuses on smoothing out minor problems or disagreements.

unraveling

Suggests disentangling a complex situation to find a solution.

getting to the bottom of

Emphasizes finding the root cause of a problem.

FAQs

How is "solving" used in a sentence?

"Solving" functions as a present participle, often part of a continuous verb form. For example: "She is actively "solving" the problem" or "The key to "solving" the puzzle is patience".

What are some alternatives to "solving"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "resolving", "addressing", or "tackling". Each carries slightly different nuances.

Is it always appropriate to use "solving" in formal writing?

Yes, "solving" is generally appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing problem-solving processes or solutions. However, consider more formal synonyms like "resolving" in highly academic contexts.

What's the difference between "solving" and "settling"?

"Solving" implies finding a solution to a problem, whereas "settling" often refers to resolving a dispute or reaching an agreement. While both involve resolving something, their contexts differ.