makeshift solution
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makeshift solution
A temporary, improvised solution to an urgent problem, used only because a better or final solution is not possible at the moment.
Das Klebeband am Auspuff ist nur eine Notlösung, bis wir in die Werkstatt können.
The tape on the exhaust is only a makeshift solution until we can get to the repair shop.
The word is composed of 'die Not' (need/emergency) and 'die Lösung' (solution). So it literally describes a 'solution in a time of need', which you choose only because there is an urgent problem.
Das Zelt war bei dem Regen nur eine Notlösung, aber besser als nichts.
The tent was only a makeshift solution in the rain, but better than nothing.
A Notlösung (makeshift solution) is often described as inadequate or only temporary. Therefore, it is frequently combined with words like 'nur' (only), 'bloß' (merely), or 'vorläufig' (temporary/provisional).
Das Gästezimmer ist nur eine vorläufige Notlösung, bis die neue Wohnung fertig ist.
The guest room is only a temporary makeshift solution until the new apartment is ready.
Typical verbs used with 'Notlösung' (makeshift solution) are 'dienen als' (to serve as), 'sein' (to be), or 'darstellen' (to represent/constitute). You can also say 'auf eine Notlösung zurückgreifen' (to resort to a makeshift solution).
Für eine Nacht kann das Sofa als Notlösung dienen.
For one night, the sofa can serve as a makeshift solution.
improvisation
An Improvisation is a solution found spontaneously as a makeshift measure. A Notlösung (makeshift solution) is chosen because there is an urgent problem and a better solution is not currently possible. With an Improvisation, the focus is therefore on the spontaneous idea; with a Notlösung, it is on the lack of a better option.
Die Reparatur mit Klebeband war eine Notlösung, weil kein Ersatzteil verfügbar war.
Repairing it with tape was a makeshift solution because no replacement part was available.
Die Reparatur mit Klebeband war eine schnelle Improvisation des Hausmeisters.
Repairing it with tape was the caretaker’s quick improvisation.
