Solve

Definition

The term "solve" refers to finding an answer or explanation for a problem, question, or mystery, or resolving a difficult situation.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɑːlv/, /sɔːlv/
• Respelling: SAHLV, SAWLV

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɒlv/
• Respelling: SOLV

Etymology

The word "solve" comes from the Latin "solvere," meaning "to loosen or untie." It entered Middle English through Old French "solver," carrying the sense of resolving or finding an explanation.

Derivatives

• Solver (noun)
• Solvable (adjective)
• Unsolvable (adjective)
• Resolving (adjective/verb)
• Solution (noun)

Synonyms

• Resolve
• Answer
• Decipher

Antonyms

• Confuse
• Complicate
• None

Usage

The term "solve" is widely used in contexts like mathematics, problem-solving, and decision-making. For example, "She solved the complex equation," or "We need to solve this issue before it escalates."

Related Terms

• Solution: The answer to a problem or the means of solving it.
• Resolution: The act of solving or deciding something.
• Decipher: To interpret or make sense of something.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To find an answer to a problem or question:
  • Example: "He solved the mystery with careful investigation."
• To explain or clarify something difficult to understand:
  • Example: "The professor solved the confusion surrounding the topic."
• To resolve or settle a matter or situation:
  • Example: "They solved the dispute through mediation."