silver-bullet
/ˈsɪl.və ˌbʊl.ɪt/ IELTSAcademic
noun
A simple solution that seems to solve a difficult problem quickly. It often suggests that no perfect, easy fix really exists.
- There is no silver bullet for climate change.
- The new app is not a silver bullet.
- Training is helpful, but it is no silver bullet.
Adinary Nuance
A silver bullet is stronger than solution or answer because it suggests one easy fix for a hard problem. It is different from quick fix, which can sound temporary or careless. Writers use silver bullet when they want to warn that real problems usually need several steps.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- giải pháp thần kỳ
- Spanish
- solución mágica
- Chinese
- 灵丹妙药
- Japanese
- 万能薬
- Korean
- 만능 해결책
Etymology
The phrase comes from the old legend that a silver bullet could kill a werewolf. In English, it began to mean a magical or perfect fix, especially in the 20th century.
Common phrases
no silver bulletthe silver bulleta possible silver bullet
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is silver bullet formal or informal?
- It is common in writing and speech, especially in business and academic contexts.
- What is the difference between silver bullet and quick fix?
- A silver bullet is a perfect answer to a hard problem. A quick fix is fast, but it may not last.
- Can I use silver bullet in IELTS Writing?
- Yes, if you use it clearly and naturally. It works well when discussing complex problems and solutions.
- Is silver bullet used literally?
- Usually, no. It is almost always used in a figurative way.