solve
English meaning: Solve
Definition
To find an answer or solution to a problem or difficult situation.
Example
“The young detective was able to solve the mystery using only a few small clues.”
Another example: “It took the detectives months to solve the case.”
Usage — When, Where & How
A common, neutral verb used in everyday, academic and technical contexts; you 'solve' problems, puzzles, crimes, equations and mysteries. Works in both formal and informal English.
Etymology & Origin
English — Origin & History
From Latin 'solvere' (to loosen, release, dissolve).
Synonyms
Antonyms / Opposites
- cause
- complicate
Related Words
Common Collocations
- solve a problem
- solve a mystery
- solve a puzzle
- solve an equation
- problem-solving
Word Forms
solve (v); solved; solves; solving; solution (n); solvable (adj)
Word Tools
Literary Heritage
“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”
/To thine own self be true/
“Be honest with yourself — and as naturally as night follows day, you will be unable to be false to others.”
“I'm nobody! Who are you? Are you nobody, too?”
/I'm nobody! Who are you?/
“I am nobody — and that quiet anonymity is more honest than the noise of public fame.”
Images
CC-licensed · free to useVideo
Language information
- Language
- English
- English
- Script
- Latin
- Family
- Indo-European
- Speakers
- 1.5B