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unsolved — not solved or explained; without a solution

Part of speech: ADJECTIVE

Definition: not solved or explained; without a solution

Pronunciation (IPA): /ʌnˈsɑːlvd/

Example Sentences

  • My little brother's math homework has been unsolved for three days because he keeps playing video games instead.
  • The detective sighed as she stared at another unsolved case file on her cluttered desk.
  • Why is the mystery of who ate the last slice of pizza still unsolved in this house?

unsolved

ADJECTIVE

[/ʌnˈsɑːlvd/]

not solved or explained; without a solution

The detective stares at the unsolved case pinned to the wall for years.
💡 Concept

The detective stares at the unsolved case pinned to the wall for years.

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🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ʌnˈsɑːlvd/
🇬🇧 UK/ʌnˈsɒlvd/

🌳Etymology

Prefixun--
Rootsolve
Suffix--ed

Origin

The word 'unsolved' combines the negation prefix 'un-' with 'solve', which derives from Latin 'solvere' (to loosen, unfasten, release). Originally denoting the physical act of untying knots or loosening bonds, 'solvere' evolved to encompass the abstract sense of resolving problems or difficulties.

Breakdown

un- (not, negation) + solv- (from Latin solvere, to loosen/resolve) + -ed (past participle suffix), literally meaning 'not loosened' or 'not resolved'.

🎵Rhyme

dissolved
involved
revolved

🔗Collocations

unsolved mystery
unsolved case
unsolved crime
remain unsolved
unsolved problem
leave unsolved

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“My little brother's math homework has been unsolved for three days because he keeps playing video games instead.”

“The detective sighed as she stared at another unsolved case file on her cluttered desk.”

😄 Fun example

“Why is the mystery of who ate the last slice of pizza still unsolved in this house?”

“Scientists are working hard to find answers to this unsolved problem in physics.”

📚Related Words

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