問題を解決する
mondai o kaiketsu suru
solve problems
Literally: 問題 (Problem) + を (Object marker) + 解決 (Resolution) + する (To do)
In 15 Seconds
- Used for resolving conflicts, technical issues, or complex challenges.
- Combines 'mondai' (problem) with 'kaiketsu' (resolution).
- Suitable for both professional settings and serious personal matters.
Meaning
This phrase is used when you find a solution to a tricky situation or fix a nagging issue. It’s that satisfying 'problem solved' feeling you get after fixing a bug, settling a dispute, or figuring out a logistical nightmare.
Key Examples
3 of 7In a business meeting
新しいシステムを導入して、この問題を解決しましょう。
Let's solve this problem by introducing a new system.
Texting a friend about a tech issue
やっとスマホの不具合を解決したよ！
I finally fixed the glitch on my smartphone!
A serious talk with a partner
話し合って、二人の間の問題を解決したい。
I want to talk and resolve the issues between us.
Cultural Background
Problem-solving in Japanese companies often focuses on 'preventing recurrence' ({再発|さいはつ}{防止|ぼうし}). Simply fixing the current issue isn't enough; you must explain how you will ensure it never happens again. In the US, problem-solving is often seen as an individual achievement. 'I solved it' is a strong statement of personal competence, whereas in Japan, it's often 'We solved it' ({解決|かいけつ}できました). German problem-solving is highly systematic. The focus is on following the correct process to reach the 'Lösung' (solution). Japanese {解決|かいけつ} also values process, but places higher weight on maintaining group harmony during that process. In China, solving a problem often involves leveraging one's social network (Guanxi). A 'solution' might be found through a favor rather than a formal procedure, which is reflected in the flexible use of 'Jiějué'.
Use 'Gaiketsu' for status
In business emails, you can use '{解決|かいけつ}済み' (Already solved) as a quick status update.
Math vs. Life
Remember: {解|と}く for math, {解決|かいけつ} for life's messes!
In 15 Seconds
- Used for resolving conflicts, technical issues, or complex challenges.
- Combines 'mondai' (problem) with 'kaiketsu' (resolution).
- Suitable for both professional settings and serious personal matters.
What It Means
問題を解決する is your go-to phrase for fixing things. It covers everything from technical bugs to social drama. Think of it as the bridge between a mess and peace. It sounds more decisive than just "fixing" something. It implies a logical or final resolution has been reached. You are not just patching it; you are resolving it for good.
How To Use It
The grammar is quite straightforward for you to master. You take your problem: 問題. You add the object marker: を. Then you finish with the verb: 解決する. If you want to sound polite in an office, use 解決します. If you just finished a hard task, shout 解決した！ to celebrate. It’s a "suru" verb, making it very flexible for different tenses. You can even turn it into a noun by saying 解決策 to mean "a solution."
When To Use It
Use it when you’ve finally cracked a difficult code at work. It’s perfect for business meetings when discussing project strategies. Use it when you and a friend finally stop arguing about chores. It works great for customer support situations when a complaint is handled. If you find a way to save money on rent, that’s a solution. Basically, any time a "headache" goes away, this phrase fits perfectly. It makes you sound proactive and capable.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for simple physical repairs like a broken shoe. For a broken heel or a torn shirt, 直す (naosu) is much better. Don't use it for simple math homework problems either. For 1+1, use 解く (toku) instead of 解決する. It’s also a bit too heavy for "solving" what to eat for lunch. Keep it for things that feel like a genuine "issue" or "conflict." Using it for trivial things might make you sound a bit overly dramatic.
Cultural Background
Japanese culture highly values 和 (Wa), or social harmony. Because of this, 問題を解決する isn't just about being logically right. It's often about making sure everyone can move forward together. Sometimes, a solution involves a compromise to "save face" for everyone involved. Solving a problem often requires 根回し (Nemawashi), or quiet preparation. A "solved" problem in Japan means the social balance is restored. It’s about peace as much as it is about logic.
Common Variations
You will often hear 解決策 (kaiketsusaku), meaning "a solution strategy." There is also 早期解決 (souki kaiketsu) for a "speedy resolution." If you solve it yourself without help, it’s 自己解決 (jiko kaiketsu). In the news, you might hear 紛争解決 (funsou kaiketsu) for international conflict resolution. If a problem is particularly stubborn, you might say it is 解決が難しい (difficult to solve).
Usage Notes
The phrase is neutral and versatile. It is slightly more formal than 'naosu' (fix) and is the standard term for professional or serious conflict resolution. Avoid using it for simple physical repairs.
Use 'Gaiketsu' for status
In business emails, you can use '{解決|かいけつ}済み' (Already solved) as a quick status update.
Math vs. Life
Remember: {解|と}く for math, {解決|かいけつ} for life's messes!
Softening the blow
When you solve a problem for someone else, say '{解決|かいけつ}できたみたいです' (It seems it was solved) to sound more humble.
Examples
7新しいシステムを導入して、この問題を解決しましょう。
Let's solve this problem by introducing a new system.
A standard, professional way to propose a solution.
やっとスマホの不具合を解決したよ！
I finally fixed the glitch on my smartphone!
Using the past tense 'shita' for a casual achievement.
話し合って、二人の間の問題を解決したい。
I want to talk and resolve the issues between us.
Using 'kaiketsu' for emotional or relationship conflicts.
お金がないという問題を解決する方法は、宝くじだけだ。
The only way to solve my 'no money' problem is the lottery.
Using the phrase for a relatable, slightly cynical joke.
早急に問題を解決いたしますので、少々お待ちください。
We will resolve the problem immediately, so please wait a moment.
Very formal version using 'itashimasu'.
ゴミ出しの問題を解決するのは難しいですね。
It's difficult to solve the trash disposal problem, isn't it?
Using the phrase to discuss common social friction.
自分で問題を解決する力が大切だ。
The ability to solve problems by oneself is important.
General statement about life skills.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct verb for solving a math problem.
{数学|すうがく}の{問題|もんだい}を（ ）。
Math problems use {解|と}く (toku), while social/technical issues use {解決|かいけつ}する.
Fill in the blank with the correct particle.
{昨日|きのう}のトラブル（ ）{解決|かいけつ}しました。
You are the one who solved the trouble (direct object), so use 'wo'. If the trouble resolved itself, you could use 'ga'.
Complete the dialogue with the most natural form of {解決|かいけつ}する.
A: パソコン、まだ{壊|こわ}れてるの？ B: いや、もう（ ）よ。
The past tense 'shita' is needed to show the problem is already over.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Which situation is most appropriate for '{根本的|こんぽんてき}な{解決|かいけつ}が必要だ'?
'Fundamental resolution' is used for deep-rooted, recurring issues.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Kaiketsu vs. Toku
Practice Bank
4 exercises{数学|すうがく}の{問題|もんだい}を（ ）。
Math problems use {解|と}く (toku), while social/technical issues use {解決|かいけつ}する.
{昨日|きのう}のトラブル（ ）{解決|かいけつ}しました。
You are the one who solved the trouble (direct object), so use 'wo'. If the trouble resolved itself, you could use 'ga'.
A: パソコン、まだ{壊|こわ}れてるの？ B: いや、もう（ ）よ。
The past tense 'shita' is needed to show the problem is already over.
Which situation is most appropriate for '{根本的|こんぽんてき}な{解決|かいけつ}が必要だ'?
'Fundamental resolution' is used for deep-rooted, recurring issues.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, but {謎|なぞ}を{解|と}く is more common for mysteries. {解決|かいけつ} is used when the mystery was a 'case' or 'problem' for the police.
Absolutely. It's not overly formal, just clear and standard.
{解決|かいけつ} is for a specific issue (like a bug). {解消|かいしょう} is for a state (like stress or a misunderstanding).
No, that's ungrammatical. Use '{問題|もんだい}が{解決|かいけつ}する' or '{問題|もんだい}を{解決|かいけつ}する'.
Use '{未解決|みかいけつ}'. For example, '{未解決|みかいけつ}の{事件|じけん}' (an unsolved case).
Only in very high-level academic writing where a 'mathematical problem' is treated as a 'scientific hurdle' to be overcome.
It means 'a solution' or 'a plan to solve something'. It's very common in business meetings.
You solve the *problem* of the car not starting, but you *repair* ({修理|しゅうり}する) the car.
No, it sounds proactive and helpful.
Usually 'wo' (if you solve it) or 'ga' (if it gets solved).
Related Phrases
{解消|かいしょう}する
similarTo dissolve or clear away a state (like stress).
{解|と}く
specialized formTo solve a math problem or puzzle.
{直|なお}す
similarTo fix or repair something broken.
{片付|かたづ}ける
informalTo tidy up or finish off a task.
{決着|けっちゃく}を{付|つ}ける
builds onTo bring something to a final, decisive end.
