tackled the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tackled the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing how someone addressed or dealt with a specific issue or challenge. Example: "The team tackled the problem of declining sales by implementing a new marketing strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Gauss tackled the problem of existence directly.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Other companies have tackled the problem as well.

The New York Times

Fernando tackled the problem by switching his schedule.

The New York Times

Then Mr. Oglesby tackled the problem of design.

The New York Times

Characteristically, Bourgain tackled the problem by means of harmonic analysis.

Nature

With the project, our team tackled the problem of food waste.

Cornell University

For much of the past century governments have tackled the problem in one of two ways.

The Economist

He and his colleagues tackled the problem through theoretical calculations and computer simulations.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Yet the administration has essentially tackled the problem as if it were a political no-brainer.

The New York Times - Magazine

Police officers from the 106th Precinct have tackled the problem in different ways.

The New York Times

"Labour tackled the problem of rough sleeping in London then, and we'll do it again now.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tackled the problem" when emphasizing a direct and forceful approach to addressing a specific challenge.

Common error

While "tackled the problem" is acceptable, avoid overuse in formal writing. Opt for more nuanced alternatives like "addressed the issue", "managed the challenge", or "resolved the matter" to maintain sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tackled the problem" functions as a verb phrase combined with a noun. It describes the action of actively addressing a challenge or issue. Ludwig's examples show it's commonly used to convey a direct and proactive approach to resolving difficulties.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

29%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tackled the problem" is a very common and grammatically correct way to describe actively addressing a challenge. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is frequently used in news, science, and academic contexts, showing its versatility. While "tackled the problem" is widely accepted, it's essential to consider alternatives like "addressed the issue" for more formal settings or nuanced meanings. When writing, be clear about the problem being addressed and the approach taken. Avoid overusing "tackled the problem", and be mindful of context to maintain effective and sophisticated communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

addressed the issue

Focuses on directing attention and effort towards a specific issue, often implying a formal or official approach.

confronted the challenge

Emphasizes directly facing a difficult or demanding situation, suggesting a proactive stance.

handled the situation

Implies managing or dealing with a particular set of circumstances, often emphasizing competence and control.

combated the difficulty

Suggests actively fighting against a challenging obstacle, highlighting resilience and determination.

resolved the matter

Focuses on bringing a situation to a conclusion, emphasizing a successful outcome or settlement.

overcame the obstacle

Implies successfully surpassing a barrier or impediment, highlighting achievement and triumph.

solved the puzzle

Focuses on finding a solution to a complex or intricate problem, often implying intellectual effort and insight.

managed the crisis

Suggests effectively controlling and mitigating a critical or urgent situation, emphasizing leadership and stability.

grappled with the predicament

Implies struggling or wrestling with a difficult or perplexing situation, highlighting the effort and uncertainty involved.

endeavored to fix the glitch

Implies making an attempt to resolve a minor malfunction or issue, emphasizing effort and technical skill.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "tackled the problem"?

You can use alternatives like "addressed the issue", "confronted the challenge", or "handled the situation" depending on the context.

How do I use "tackled the problem" in a sentence?

Use "tackled the problem" to describe a direct and active approach to dealing with a specific issue. For example, "The team tackled the problem of declining sales by implementing a new marketing strategy."

Which is correct, "tackled the problem" or "addressed the problem"?

Both "tackled the problem" and "addressed the problem" are correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Tackled" implies a more forceful and direct approach, while "addressed" suggests a more general attempt to deal with the issue.

What's the difference between "tackled the problem" and "solved the problem"?

"Tackled the problem" implies an attempt to deal with an issue, while "solved the problem" indicates a successful resolution. You "tackle" a problem by addressing it, but you "solve" it by finding a solution.