What does unsolved mean?
“Unsolved” means that something has not yet been solved, explained, or definitively settled. It is used for problems in mathematics and science, criminal cases that lack a proven culprit, mysteries that remain unexplained, and questions that have not received satisfactory answers. The word is neutral to formal and often carries a sense of difficulty, persistence, or uncertainty: an unsolved problem may have resisted repeated attempts to find a solution, while an unsolved case may still be the focus of investigation. “Unsolved” is related in meaning to “unresolved” and “unanswered,” but it is particularly common with problems, mysteries, and cases. It is also the opposite of “solved,” though “solved” can imply a successful method or established answer, whereas “unsolved” highlights the absence of that result. The word is useful when describing questions that remain open while recognizing that they may require further evidence, insight, or effort.
adjectiveNot solved or resolved; still requiring investigation, proof, or action.
- Not solved, resolved, or explained; remaining open or requiring further investigation or action.
"The murder remains unsolved despite years of forensic analysis."
"Police have appealed for witnesses after the case remained unsolved for more than a decade."
"The researchers are still working on an unsolved problem in mathematical physics."
Some mysteries wait for a witness; others wait for a proof.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does unsolved come from?
“Unsolved” was formed in English by combining the prefix “un-” with “solve,” meaning “to disentangle, determine, or resolve.” “Solve” comes through Old French from Latin solvere, “to loosen, untie, or explain,” while related English words such as “resolve,” “resolution,” and “solution” share this Latin root. The prefixed form developed its modern sense of “not solved or determined” as the language evolved.
How unsolved is actually used
“Unsolved” is generally neutral to formal in tone and is especially associated with problems, mysteries, crimes, and questions. In everyday use, it conveys that an issue is still waiting for a solution or definitive explanation.
Easily confused with unsolved
Both describe something not yet settled, but “unresolved” often refers to issues, questions, or disputes, whereas “unsolved” is especially common for problems, mysteries, and cases.