to solve a problem

USAGE SUMMARY

'to solve a problem' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to describe the action of resolving or addressing an issue. For example: "The team worked together to solve a problem they had been facing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To solve a problem.

The Guardian

Capone came here to solve a problem.

The New York Times

I want to solve a problem.

Yale University

How to solve a problem like Alfredo?

The Guardian - Sport

Maybe it's trying to solve a problem.

Harvard Business Review

While trying to solve a problem, we have created one".

The Guardian

The benchmark was supposed to solve a problem for bankers.

The New York Times

HIGH technology is not always needed to solve a problem.

The Economist

But also you had to solve a problem, basically.

The Guardian - Film

They're supposed to pool resources to solve a problem".

The New York Times

The object of bouldering is to "solve a problem".

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to solve a problem" in professional writing, ensure the problem is clearly defined to provide context for your solution.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of your solution. While it's important to highlight the benefits, ensure your claims are realistic and supported by evidence. Don't say that you are "to solve a problem" if in reality you are just solving a symptom of it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to solve a problem" functions as an infinitive phrase, often used to express the purpose or intention behind an action. Ludwig provides several examples where this phrase is used to indicate the goal of finding a resolution to an issue.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to solve a problem" is a versatile and frequently used infinitive phrase that conveys the intention of resolving an issue. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability across diverse contexts, from academic research and news reporting to everyday conversations. The phrase's neutral register and wide applicability make it a valuable tool for clear and effective communication. Remember to define the problem clearly and avoid overstating the impact of your solution for best practices. Alternative phrases like "to address an issue" or "to resolve a difficulty" can be used to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to find a solution to

Highlights the act of discovering an answer or method.

to address an issue

Replaces "problem" with "issue", broadening the scope of what is being resolved.

to resolve a difficulty

Substitutes "problem" with "difficulty", implying a more challenging situation.

to overcome an obstacle

Focuses on the act of surpassing a barrier, rather than simply finding a solution.

to remedy a situation

Implies improving an undesirable condition.

to fix a glitch

Implies correcting a minor malfunction or error.

to rectify an error

Focuses on correcting mistakes or inaccuracies.

to sort out a difficulty

Casual way to describe resolving a problem.

to handle a challenge

Emphasizes managing or dealing with a difficult situation.

to mitigate a crisis

Suggests lessening the severity of a critical situation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "to solve a problem"?

You can use alternatives such as "to address an issue", "to resolve a difficulty", or "to find a solution to" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "solving a problem" instead of "to solve a problem"?

Yes, "solving a problem" can be used as a gerund or part of a continuous verb tense, while "to solve a problem" functions as an infinitive phrase indicating purpose or intention. Both are grammatically correct, but their usage depends on the sentence structure.

What's the difference between "to solve a problem" and "to fix a problem"?

"To solve a problem" implies a more comprehensive and strategic approach, while "to fix a problem" often suggests a quicker, more immediate solution, usually for something that is broken or malfunctioning.

In what contexts is "to solve a problem" most appropriately used?

The phrase "to solve a problem" is versatile and fits in numerous scenarios: you can use it in business, in academics and in everyday conversations. Basically anywhere you are referring to finding a solution to an issue.