Do the trick

usgb
phrase

To have the needed or desired effect, to solve a problem.

My headache wouldn't go away until I took some medicine, that really did the trick.
Visual representation of "do the trick" - To have the needed or desired effect, to solve a problem

Often appears as...

  • that should do the trick
  • will this do the trick

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "do the trick"
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Colloquial Usage

Used informally in everyday conversation, not in formal writing.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
If your phone's frozen, restarting it should do the trick.
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Problem Solving

Implies a simple or effective solution to a specific problem.

Illustration for Problem Solving
A dab of oil on the hinge did the trick, no more squeaking door.
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Success Connotation

Often suggests the success of an action was somewhat uncertain.

Illustration for Success Connotation
I wasn't sure if the patch would hold, but it did the trick.
Visual representation of the word "Do the trick"

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