Another Word for Solve: 14 Synonyms with Examples
To solve is to find an answer to a problem or puzzle. Alternatives show whether you mean working out an answer, ending a dispute or fixing a fault.
As a verb: find the answer
- work out
- figure out
- crack
- answer
- decipher
- unravel
- puzzle out
As a verb: deal with successfully
- resolve
- fix
- sort out
- settle
- remedy
- overcome
- tackle
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- work out
- Informal; finds an answer by thinking.
- crack
- Informal; solves something difficult, such as a code.
- decipher
- Works out the meaning of something hard to read.
- resolve
- Formal; settles a problem or dispute.
- fix
- Repairs a fault or sorts a problem.
- overcome
- Succeeds in dealing with a difficulty.
Example sentences
- work out: Can you work out the answer without a calculator?
- crack: It took the team a week to crack the code.
- decipher: I couldn't decipher the handwriting on the label.
- resolve: The two sides resolved their dispute without going to court.
- fix: The update fixed the problem with the camera.
- overcome: She overcame her fear of public speaking.
Opposite of solve
- complicate
- worsen
- confuse
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “solve”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: lick, work, clear
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “solve”?
The most useful alternatives are “work out”, “figure out”, “crack”, “answer”, “decipher”. For the main sense (find the answer), “work out” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “work out” and “crack”?
work out: Informal; finds an answer by thinking. crack: Informal; solves something difficult, such as a code.
What is the opposite of “solve”?
Common antonyms are “complicate”, “worsen”, “confuse”.