What does solving mean?
“Solving” means finding an answer, explanation, or practical resolution for a question, problem, or difficulty. As the present participle of the verb “solve,” it describes activity in progress: someone may be solving an equation, diagnosing a fault, or working through a dispute. It can also function as a gerund noun, as in “the solving of a crime,” although that usage is more formal than ordinary expressions such as “solving a problem.” The word suggests more than merely attempting a task: solving normally implies identifying what causes the difficulty and finding an effective answer or resolution. It is especially common in technical, mathematical, scientific, and investigative contexts, but applies equally to everyday problems. Because “solve” originally referred to loosening or separating something, the modern sense developed from the idea of untangling a difficulty and reaching a clear solution.
To find an answer to a problem, question, or difficulty.
"They worked together to solve the system-wide problem."
This is the present participle of “solve” and is commonly used in progressive constructions.
The process or act of finding an answer to a problem or difficulty.
"The solving of the dispute required careful negotiation."
The noun use is more formal and commonly takes “the” or a possessive form.
A problem may be difficult, but a problem that has not been solved is merely waiting for a different way of seeing it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does solving come from?
The verb comes from Latin “solvere,” meaning “to loosen, untie, or dissolve,” which developed into the sense of resolving a question or difficulty. Old French “solver” passed into Middle English, where it acquired the modern spelling “solve.” English derivatives include “solution,” “solvable,” and “solvent,” while “dissolve” preserves an older sense of separating or breaking down.
Related word forms
How solving is actually used
As a verb form, “solving” normally follows a modal or auxiliary verb, as in “is solving,” and describes an activity in progress. As a noun, it is somewhat formal and usually appears with “the” or a possessive, as in “the solving of disputes.”
Easily confused with solving
“Solving” means finding an answer or resolution, whereas “salving” means saving something from loss, damage, or destruction.