Determined

USAGE SUMMARY

"determined" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is strongly focused and persistent in achieving their goals. Example: Despite facing numerous obstacles, Sarah was determined to complete her college degree and worked tirelessly to achieve her dream.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Every country in the world has a right to self-defence and I'm determined to put Britain's first-class defence industry at the forefront of this market, supporting 300,000 jobs across the country".

The Guardian - Business

He, determined to help wash dishes with an oblivious mama not acknowledging his signs for 'up!', found me and a lazy dog blocking his way.

The Guardian

We have determined that there is sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction and that a prosecution is in the public interest".

The Guardian

She has no compunction in moving Labour beyond our comfort zone and is determined to build a team ready to chart a route forward".

The Guardian

United and determined we can bring our values and interests to bear in the world.

The Guardian

Turning to English, she added: "United and determined, we can defend our European economic and social model in the world.

The Guardian

United and determined we can serve as a model for other regions of the world.

The Guardian

"They are very determined and say they believe the cause they are protesting about is so important that they are prepared to be arrested.

The Guardian

The prime minister will make clear that he is determined to see through his strategy.

The Guardian

Onofre told the band the length of the performance was to be determined by how long the oxygen inside lasted.

The Guardian - Arts

He stressed that the UK currently meets the Nato target, but said that spending levels after 2016 would be determined by a spending review.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "determined", follow it with 'to' + verb to indicate the specific action or goal the subject is committed to achieve. For example: 'She was determined to succeed'.

Common error

Avoid using "determined" when a more nuanced word like "motivated", "eager", or "interested" better fits the context. "Determined" implies a strong, often unwavering resolve that might be too forceful for some situations.

Linguistic Context

The word "determined" primarily functions as an adjective, describing a quality of a noun, specifically indicating a firm decision or unwavering resolve. Ludwig shows examples where "determined" modifies subjects like "team", "government", and "person" to convey their strong commitment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "determined" functions as an adjective expressing firm resolve and commitment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, with examples spanning news, business, and scientific contexts. Key writing tips include using "determined" followed by 'to' + verb and avoiding it when a less forceful word is more appropriate. The related phrases such as "resolved", "intent on", and "committed to" provide alternative ways to express similar meanings. Its frequent use across authoritative sources like The Guardian and BBC underlines its reliability and versatility in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Resolved

Emphasizes a firm decision, often after a period of consideration.

Intent on

Highlights a focused intention towards a specific outcome.

Committed to

Indicates a dedicated pledge or promise to achieve something.

Resolute

Stresses unwavering determination and firmness of purpose.

Driven

Highlights internal motivation and ambition.

Dedicated to

Implies a strong devotion and focus on a particular goal.

Set on

Suggests a firm and unwavering intention.

Dead set on

Emphasizes a very firm and inflexible determination.

Hell-bent on

Indicates a reckless or single-minded determination, often with negative connotations.

Dogged

Highlights persistence and tenacity in pursuing a goal, even in the face of difficulties.

FAQs

How to use "determined" in a sentence?

Use "determined" to describe someone or something that is firmly resolved or decided. For instance, "The team was "determined" to win the championship."

What can I say instead of "determined"?

You can use alternatives like "resolved", "intent on", or "committed to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "determined to" or "determined of"?

"Determined to" is the correct phrasing. For example, "She was "determined to" finish the race", not "determined of".

What's the difference between "determined" and "motivated"?

"Determined" implies a firm decision to achieve something, often overcoming obstacles, while "motivated" suggests a general desire or willingness to do something. Someone "motivated" might want to do something, but someone "determined" will do everything possible to make it happen.