stopgap solutions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stopgap solutions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to temporary measures or fixes that are implemented to address a problem until a more permanent solution is found. Example: "While we work on a long-term strategy, we will need to implement some stopgap solutions to manage the current issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Stopgap solutions are imposing an educational cost.

The New York Times

Leading manufacturers spent 2008 looking for stopgap solutions to their longer-term woes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Unlike Argentina, which depended on foreign capital to balance its books, Japan is expected to work out stopgap solutions within the family.

The New York Times

The Mets can be satisfied with these stopgap solutions because they have an abundance of promising prospects lining up for a chance to prove their worth.

The New York Times - Sports

PAGE A12 States Struggle on Budgets For the 17th time in 25 years, California began a fiscal year without a state budget, while other states met their budget deadlines with stopgap solutions.

The New York Times

Claudio Vargas, one of the stopgap solutions in the Mets' pitching staff, came in to pitch the sixth and proceeded to allow four more runs before leaving the field to a blend of boos and ironic cheers.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

It is a stopgap solution.

The New York Times

Charity can never be more than a stopgap solution.

The New Yorker

However, the trust now feels more like a stopgap solution.

The Guardian

But, like fracking, he says, it offers only "a stopgap" solution.

The Guardian

Burke, therefore, could represent a stopgap solution for the Rangers, and would probably not come at too much cost.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "stopgap solutions", clearly indicate that these are temporary and outline the planned long-term strategy to avoid giving the impression of a lack of foresight.

Common error

Avoid treating "stopgap solutions" as permanent fixes. Regularly reassess their effectiveness and actively pursue more sustainable strategies to prevent recurring issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stopgap solutions" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where "stopgap" modifies "solutions". It describes the nature of the solutions as being temporary or serving as an interim measure. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

16%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stopgap solutions" refers to temporary fixes implemented to address immediate problems while more permanent solutions are developed. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable, although it appears with uncommon frequency, mainly in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, it's crucial to emphasize the temporary nature of the solutions and the intention to implement long-term strategies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

temporary fixes

Emphasizes the short-term nature and corrective purpose more directly.

interim measures

Highlights that the actions are taken during a transitional period.

interim solutions

Stresses that the solution is meant for a specific period between two events.

short-term solutions

Focuses solely on the limited duration of the solution.

provisional arrangements

Suggests a formal or planned, but not permanent, setup.

makeshift remedies

Implies a degree of improvisation and resourcefulness in the solution.

band-aid solutions

Conveys a sense of superficiality and limited effectiveness.

quick fixes

Suggests a rapid and easy, but potentially incomplete, solution.

temporary expedients

Emphasizes the convenience and suitability of the solution for a specific purpose.

palliative measures

Implies that the measures are primarily aimed at relieving symptoms rather than curing the underlying problem.

FAQs

What does "stopgap solutions" mean?

The term "stopgap solutions" refers to temporary measures or fixes implemented to address an immediate problem, with the understanding that a more permanent and comprehensive solution is needed in the future. They are intended to bridge a gap or provide relief until a better alternative can be developed or implemented.

How can I use "stopgap solutions" in a sentence?

You can use "stopgap solutions" to describe temporary fixes. For example: "The city implemented "stopgap solutions" to alleviate traffic congestion during the bridge repairs."

What are some alternatives to "stopgap solutions"?

Alternatives to "stopgap solutions" include "temporary fixes", "interim measures", or "provisional arrangements". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "stopgap solutions"?

It's appropriate to use "stopgap solutions" when facing an immediate problem that requires attention but lacks an immediate, permanent resolution. This approach provides temporary relief while long-term solutions are being developed or implemented.