解决

• Pinyin: jiě jué
• Hanzi breakdown: 解 = 角 (horn) + 刀 (knife) + 牛 (ox), originally meaning to cut apart an ox with a knife; 决 = 氵(water) + 夬 (decisive, phonetic), meaning to decide or burst through

Meaning

To solve; to resolve; to settle. To find a solution to a problem or bring an issue to a satisfactory conclusion.

Extremely common and versatile. Used for solving problems, resolving disputes, settling matters, and even colloquially for taking care of a meal (解决午饭 = deal with lunch). Applies to everything from maths problems to interpersonal conflicts to practical issues.

Examples

1. 这个问题我们一定要想办法解决。 We must find a way to solve this problem.
2. 老师帮我解决了学习上的困难。 The teacher helped me overcome my difficulties with studying.
3. 他们通过讨论解决了分歧。 They resolved their differences through discussion.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday, workplace, academic, problem-solving

Tone: purposeful

Do Say

• 有问题就要及时解决。(If there's a problem, deal with it promptly.)
• 这件事已经解决了，你不用担心。(This matter has been resolved — you don't need to worry.)

Don't Say

• 我解决了一本书。(Don't use 解决 for finishing a book — use 看完. 解决 is for solving problems or handling tasks, not consuming media.)

Origin & History

Compound of 解 (to untie, to explain) and 决 (to decide, to determine), together meaning 'to untie and decide' — to work through a difficulty and reach a resolution.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal