Presenting Problem Is Setting Up Target
-- 1 He set up a problem for us.
Trying To Solve Problem Is Shooting At Target
-- 1 The mayor targetted the problem of homelessness.
-- 2 He took aim at the problem.
-- 3 He spearheaded the investigation.
Solving Is Striking A Solution
-- 1 He hit upon a solution.
-- 2 He took a stab at the answer.
-- 3 You hit it right on the head.
IMPORTANT IS CENTRAL "took a stab at" may not belong here. I wish there were more evidence forthis metaphor. Where is the evidence that the solution is part of the target here? You might say "bull's eye" when someone guesses somethingcorrectly, I guess.
Jane Espenson