universal solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "universal solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a solution that is applicable to a wide range of problems or situations, often implying that it works for everyone or everything. Example: "The researchers believe they have found a universal solution to the issue of climate change that can be implemented globally."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And MIMO won't be a universal solution.

MIT Technology Review

There is no simple or universal solution for the empowerment of girls.

The Guardian

Freeform surfaces are not a universal solution for correcting every aberration.

Nature

So what are we to do? "There is no universal solution," Goldberg says.

The Guardian

The distance between two longitude lines varies by latitude, so there is no simple, universal solution to this.

Cornell University

A universal solution is likely to fail for communities with varying characteristics.

Information and Software Technology

As Doubleday and Wilsdon (2013) so aptly put it, "there is no universal solution to science advice".

Nature

It would be crazy to believe that running is a universal solution to all of our psychological challenges.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Anyone interested in using third-party TRIM with non-Apple-installed SSD drives with Snow Leopard and Lion can see Hardmac's [Updated] The universal solution to activate TRIM.

The Guardian - Tech

But the idea that biochar is a universal solution that can be safely deployed on a vast scale is as misguided as Mao Zedong's Great Leap Backwards.

The Guardian

The use of transgenic plants for the production of recombinant proteins is not a universal solution for all proteins.

Vaccine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "universal solution", ensure that the context supports the claim of broad applicability. Overstating a solution's universality can undermine its credibility. Instead, acknowledge limitations where appropriate to maintain transparency and build trust with your audience.

Common error

Avoid presenting a solution as "universal" if it has not been thoroughly tested across diverse scenarios. Clearly define the scope and limitations of your proposed solution to prevent misinterpretations and maintain realistic expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "universal solution" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or complement in a sentence. It describes a solution that aims to address a wide variety of problems or situations. As indicated by Ludwig, it's often used to suggest a widely applicable remedy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "universal solution" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a broadly applicable remedy, as confirmed by Ludwig. While frequently used in scientific, news, and academic contexts, it's essential to ensure that the claimed universality is justified and supported by evidence. Overstating the reach of a solution can undermine its credibility; therefore, it's often better to acknowledge limitations or use more specific terms like "comprehensive solution" or "generalized solution" when appropriate. Ludwig's analysis underscores the importance of context and accuracy when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

comprehensive solution

Emphasizes the thoroughness and completeness of the solution.

generalized solution

Focuses on the solution's applicability to a wide range of cases.

general solution

A less formal way to indicate a widely applicable solution.

worldwide solution

Highlights that the solution is effective across the globe.

inclusive solution

Suggests the solution considers and accommodates diverse needs.

common solution

Indicates a solution used frequently and accepted broadly.

global solution

Emphasizes the international or worldwide scope of the solution.

blanket solution

Implies a solution that covers all cases, sometimes with a slightly negative connotation of being overly simplistic.

one-size-fits-all solution

Directly suggests the solution is designed to fit every situation, often used critically.

panacea

Implies a solution that cures all problems, often used metaphorically and sometimes ironically.

FAQs

What does "universal solution" mean?

A "universal solution" refers to a remedy or approach that is intended to be effective for a wide range of problems or situations, ideally applicable in all cases without modification.

When is it appropriate to use the term "universal solution"?

Use "universal solution" when you believe a solution is broadly applicable. However, be cautious, as few solutions truly fit all scenarios. If there are limitations, consider using terms like "comprehensive solution" or "generalized solution" instead.

What are some alternatives to "universal solution"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "global solution", "inclusive solution", or even the more critical "one-size-fits-all solution".

Is "universal solution" always the best term to use?

Not always. If the solution has limitations or is not truly applicable in every situation, it’s better to use a more specific term or acknowledge the limitations directly. Otherwise, you risk overstating the solution's effectiveness.