trouble-shooter
Definition
- Noun:
- A person skilled in resolving problems or conflicts: A "trouble-shooter" is someone who specializes in identifying and fixing difficulties, especially in technical, diplomatic, or organizational contexts.
- A diplomatic mediator: In informal American English, a "trouble-shooter" can refer to a diplomat or negotiator adept at settling complicated disputes.
Usage Examples
- (A person skilled in solving technical problems.)
- (A diplomat or mediator resolving conflicts.)
Advanced Usage
"to act as a trouble-shooter": to serve in a role that involves solving specific problems.
- He was sent to the factory to act as a trouble-shooter for the production delays. (He was assigned to resolve operational issues.)
"corporate trouble-shooter": a specialist employed by a business to address crises or inefficiencies.
- The board appointed a corporate trouble-shooter to turn around the failing division. (An expert hired to fix organizational problems.)
Variants and Related Words
Troubleshoot (verb): to identify and solve problems.
- She can troubleshoot any computer issue quickly. (She can diagnose and fix technical problems.)
Troubleshooting (noun): the process of solving problems.
- The manual includes a troubleshooting section for common errors. (A guide for resolving typical issues.)
Synonyms
- Problem-solver: a person who finds solutions to difficulties.
- Mediator: a person who helps resolve disputes between parties.
- Fixer: an informal term for someone who solves problems, often in a practical or behind-the-scenes manner.
Related Idioms
To put out fires: to deal with urgent problems or crises.
- As a trouble-shooter, she spends most of her time putting out fires in the office. (Resolving immediate issues.)
To be a troubleshooter: to act as a specialist in solving difficult problems.
- He is the troubleshooter for the whole IT department. (He is the expert for resolving technical issues.)