resolve a problem/solve a problem

[worcester]

Hi everyone,
What should I say "to resolve a problem" or "to solve a problem"?
Are they both acceptable?
Thanks.

 

[sumonthelost]

......student....
I guess they are kind of synonymous depending on the context. So both are correct without further context.

"solve:

to find an answer to a problem:to solve a problem
to solve a mystery/puzzle
Just calm down - shouting won't solve anything!
This strategy could cause more problems than it solves.
Police are still no nearer to solving the crime."

"resolve:
to solve or end a problem or difficulty:
Have you resolved the problem of transport yet?
The couple resolved their differences and made an effort to get along."

 

[Grumpy]

They have very similar meanings when used together with the word "problem".
However, "solving" is often used when the problem is academic, mathematical, or mechanical; whereas, "resolving" tends to be used when the problem relates to human differences and/or emotions.
Thus, "I couldn't get the top off the can, but I solved the problem by drilling a hole in it", compared with "We always fought over who should get first pick of the chocolates, so we resolved the problem by buying a box each".

 

[5jj]

"solve:

to find an answer to a problem:to solve a problem
to solve a mystery/puzzle
Just calm down - shouting won't solve anything!
This strategy could cause more problems than it solves.
Police are still no nearer to solving the crime."

"resolve:
to solve or end a problem or difficulty:
Have you resolved the problem of transport yet?
The couple resolved their differences and made an effort to get along."

If you are quoting from a published source, please credit your source, sumonthelost