Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| solucionar | /soluθjoˈnaɾ/ /solusjoˈnaɾ/ |
| solventar | /solbenˈtaɾ/ |
| solver | /solˈbeɾ/ |
The verb is used when you find an answer or a solution to a matter. While solucionar is the most common and versatile choice, you may also encounter resolver, which is frequently used when talking about mathematical problems or complex conflicts. Additionally, the verb arreglar is often used in informal contexts to mean solve.
Which one should you use?
solucionar is the most common and versatile way to express solving a problem. In contrast, solventar is a more formal term often used specifically when resolving obstacles, difficulties or financial issues. Note that while solver might look like the English verb, it is not a standard Spanish verb.
How do you pronounce it?
/soluθjoˈnaɾ/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using the word solver. Although it may seem similar to the English word, it is not a standard verb in Spanish. Instead, use solucionar.
Did you know?
- The word solver comes from the Latin solvere, which originally meant to loosen, untie or release.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, saying you will arreglar a problem can imply a 'quick fix' or a workaround rather than a permanent solution.
- The word solventar shares a root with the adjective solvente, which in Spanish describes someone's financial reliability. To be solvente means you have the means to pay your debts.
Examples in context
- Intentó solucionar el problema.He tried to solve the problem.This sentence shows how to use solucionar with a problem.Tatoeba #718770 by Shishir, translation #291340 by CK
- Intento solucionar este problema.I'm trying to solve this problem.This sentence shows the use of solucionar in a continuous action.Tatoeba #939278 by Shishir, translation #2663239 by CK
- ¿Quién puede solucionar el problema?Who can solve the problem?This sentence uses solucionar in a question.Tatoeba #7965757 by Seael, translation #5076254 by CK
- Tenemos que resolver este problema de manera rápida y eficiente.We need to solve this problem quickly and efficiently.
- Necesitamos solucionar el conflicto diplomáticamente.We need to solve the conflict diplomatically.
- No te preocupes, yo lo voy a arreglar.Don't worry, I'll solve it / fix it.
- Resolvamos esto juntos, ¿de acuerdo?Let's solve this together, okay?
- 19 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Elena and Mateo are talking about a mistake in a report.
- ElenaHay un error en el informe, Mateo.There is a mistake in the report, Mateo.
- MateoNo te preocupes, yo voy a solucionar el error.Don't worry, I am going to solve the error.
- Elena¿Necesitas ayuda para solucionarlo?Do you need help to solve it?
- MateoNo, creo que puedo hacerlo solo.No, I think I can do it alone.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “solve” translations and entries solucionar, solventar, solver, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries solventar, solver, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
