noun

problem solving

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Problem solving (noun) means the process of working out how to deal with a difficulty: understanding what is wrong, thinking through the options and putting a workable solution into practice. Example: “The role calls for strong problem solving under pressure.”

noun

The process of working out how to deal with a difficulty: understanding what is wrong, thinking through the options and putting a workable solution into practice.

"The role calls for strong problem solving under pressure."

"Half the lesson is maths, the other half is problem solving in small groups."

adjective

Relating to the ability or activity of finding solutions. Usually hyphenated before a noun.

"She has excellent problem-solving skills."

"We ran a problem-solving workshop for the support team."

How to use problem solving

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishFiguring out how to fix something that has gone wrong.

When to use it

Neutral, though very common in CVs, job adverts and education. Hyphenate before a noun (problem-solving skills), leave open as a noun (good at problem solving).

Memory tip

On a CV, name the problem and the result rather than writing "good problem-solving skills", which recruiters read past.

Easily confused with

problem solving vs critical thinking problem solving vs decision making

Common pairings

problem-solving skills creative problem solving collaborative problem solving approach to problem solving

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The role calls for strong _____ under pressure.

Synonyms

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troubleshooting analysis resolution critical thinking

Related words

research result decision answer analysis solution resolution settlement

Rhymes for problem solving

revolving resolving dissolving

See all rhymes for problem solving →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between problem solving and decision making?

Problem solving is the whole process of diagnosing an issue and generating possible fixes. Decision making is the narrower step of choosing between the options once you have them. You often make several decisions inside a single problem-solving effort.

What are the main steps in problem solving?

Most models come down to five: define the problem clearly, gather relevant information, generate possible solutions, choose and implement one, then check whether it actually worked. The last step is the one most often skipped.

What is the meaning of problem solving?

"problem solving" (noun) means the process of working out how to deal with a difficulty: understanding what is wrong, thinking through the options and putting a workable solution into practice.

What is another word for problem solving?

Other words for "problem solving" include troubleshooting, analysis, resolution, critical thinking.

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research result decision answer analysis solution resolution settlement