to solve the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to solve the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to addressing some issue. For example: "The team worked together to solve the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We want to solve the problem.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We need to solve the problem.

The New York Times

"We have to solve the problem.

Independent

So, how to solve the problem?

The Guardian

"I want to solve the problem".

The New York Times

It fails to solve the problem identified.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's what makes it very difficult to solve the problem.

The New York Times

Now, they expect you to solve the problem".

The New York Times - Sports

Good for Ms Raygorodskaya for trying to solve the problem.

The Economist

"They don't want to solve the problem peacefully," he added.

The New York Times

Few expect Bangalore's municipal government to solve the problem itself.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to solve the problem", ensure the context clearly defines the problem being addressed. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid overpromising the effectiveness of the solution. Instead of saying "This will completely solve the problem", consider "This will significantly improve the situation" to manage expectations realistically.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to solve the problem" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It typically introduces an action intended to address and resolve a specific issue, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

22%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to solve the problem" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to express the intention of resolving an issue. According to Ludwig, it's frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts. While alternatives like "to resolve the issue" or "to address the problem" exist, "to solve the problem" remains a clear and effective way to communicate the purpose of finding a solution. Remember to clearly define the problem when using this phrase to ensure clarity, and avoid overstating the impact of the proposed solution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to resolve the issue

Replaces "solve" with "resolve" maintaining a similar level of formality and meaning.

to address the problem

Substitutes "solve" with "address", indicating a focus on dealing with the problem.

to fix the problem

Uses "fix" instead of "solve", suggesting a more immediate or practical approach.

to rectify the situation

Replaces "solve the problem" with a phrase suggesting the correction of an undesirable circumstance.

to remedy the problem

Employs "remedy" in place of "solve", implying a cure or solution to the issue.

to overcome the difficulty

Shifts the focus to overcoming, framing the problem as a challenge.

to tackle the issue

Uses "tackle", suggesting a direct and forceful approach to the problem.

to alleviate the problem

Changes the emphasis to lessening the problem rather than completely solving it.

to mitigate the problem

Similar to alleviate, focuses on reducing the severity of the issue.

to manage the challenge

Implies ongoing effort to handle the problem rather than a one-time solution.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "to solve the problem"?

You can use alternatives like "to resolve the issue", "to address the problem", or "to fix the problem" depending on the context.

How do I use "to solve the problem" in a sentence?

You can use "to solve the problem" to introduce a purpose or goal. For example, "We need more resources to solve the problem efficiently".

Is "to solve the problem" formal or informal?

"To solve the problem" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "to remedy the problem" might be preferred in certain situations.

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

"To solve the problem" implies finding a complete solution, whereas "to manage the problem" suggests handling or dealing with an ongoing issue without necessarily eliminating it entirely.