solve

The word “solve” means to find the answer to a problem, puzzle, or question. In plain terms, to work out the answer to something, whether it's a mystery, a puzzle, or a maths problem.

“Solve” is pronounced solv (/sɑlv/ in IPA).

Here is “solve” used in a sentence: “It took her all afternoon to solve the crossword.”

Words with a similar meaning to “solve” include absolve, decipher, get to the bottom of, iron out, meliorate and puzzle out.

The opposite of “solve” — its antonyms — are bark up the wrong tree, confuse and missolve.

“Solve” is a verb.

The word “solve” comes from Latin. From Latin solvō, "to loosen, unbind" — the sense shifted to "work out an answer".

“Solve” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

Solve means to find the answer to a problem, puzzle, or question, as in solving a riddle or an equation. Resolve means to settle or bring something to an end, especially a dispute, doubt, or decision. You solve a maths problem, but you resolve an argument or resolve to change a habit.

No. While solving equations is a classic example, the word applies to any problem, mystery, or question. Detectives solve crimes, engineers solve technical faults, and people solve everyday dilemmas. The common thread is finding a clear answer or solution, whether the challenge is numerical, practical, or purely puzzling.

Working out a crossword clue, fixing why a computer will not start, or figuring out how to fit furniture through a doorway are all examples of solving. In each case you begin with a problem and reach an answer or solution through reasoning, testing, or trial and error.