soluble
What does "soluble" mean?
Soluble describes a substance that is capable of being dissolved, typically in a liquid like water. Mentally, visualize a cube of sugar disappearing into a hot cup of tea; the sugar is soluble because its solid structure breaks down and integrates perfectly into the solvent, becoming invisible to the naked eye. While used scientifically in chemistry to discuss solutes and solvents, it is also used metaphorically to describe problems that can be solved or fixed. In a technical context, it is often paired with "highly" or "readily" to describe the ease of dissolution, whereas in general conversation, it simply indicates that something is capable of being overcome or managed.
"soluble" in conversation
Science Lab
Make sure you track how much salt you add.
Make sure you track how much salt you add.
Is salt more soluble in warm water than cold?
Is salt more soluble in warm water than cold?
Used in a literal, scientific context regarding chemical solubility.
Office Meeting
Do you think this supply chain issue is soluble?
Do you think this supply chain issue is soluble?
Yes, if we diversify our suppliers by next quarter.
Yes, if we diversify our suppliers by next quarter.
Used metaphorically to mean 'solvable' or 'fixable'.
"soluble" in a sentence
Sugar is a highly soluble substance.
Sugar is a highly soluble substance.
The chemist tested whether the powder was soluble in alcohol.
The chemist tested whether the powder was soluble in alcohol.
Many experts believe the energy crisis is a soluble problem if we invest in new technology.
Many experts believe the energy crisis is a soluble problem if we invest in new technology.
