I was determined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was determined" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express your strong resolve and intention to do something. For example, "I was determined to finish the project by the end of the day, no matter how long it took me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But I was determined.

The New York Times - Sports

I was determined.

The New York Times

I was determined to drive".

The New York Times

I was determined not to.

The Guardian

But mostly I was determined.

The New York Times

"I was determined to live".

The New York Times

I was determined to pursue my ambitions.

The New York Times - Magazine

I was determined not to care.

The New Yorker

I was determined not to go silently.

The New York Times

I was determined to cook it.

The New Yorker

"When I got home, I was determined".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I was determined" to clearly convey your strong intention or resolve in a situation. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "I was determined" when a more active and direct statement would be more impactful. For example, instead of "I was determined to improve my skills", consider "I resolved to improve my skills."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was determined" functions as a statement of past intention or resolve. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a perfectly correct way to express a strong will to achieve something. It states the subject's firm decision to act or persist.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I was determined" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express a strong past intention or resolve. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability in written English. It is frequently found in "News & Media", and "Science", making it suitable for both formal and informal contexts. When writing, it's useful for conveying commitment and persistence. Alternatives such as "I resolved" or "I made up my mind" can offer subtle variations in meaning. Remember to use it actively, avoiding overuse of passive voice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I resolved

This alternative is shorter and more direct, emphasizing a firm decision.

I made up my mind

This emphasizes the decisiveness and mental effort in reaching a conclusion.

I was resolved

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the state of being determined.

I had every intention

This highlights the presence of a clear aim and purpose.

I was intent on

This alternative focuses on the eagerness and focus directed towards a goal.

I set my mind to

This emphasizes the focus and dedication directed towards a specific goal.

I was hell-bent on

This is more informal and emphasizes the determination and persistence to get something done.

I was driven to

This highlights the internal motivation and force compelling action.

I purposed

A slightly archaic term to indicate a firm intention

I was dead set on

This emphasizes the inflexibility and unwavering nature of the decision.

FAQs

How can I use "I was determined" in a sentence?

You can use "I was determined" to express a firm decision or intention, like in the sentence "I was determined to finish the project on time".

What's a more formal alternative to "I was determined"?

A more formal alternative would be "I was resolved", which carries a similar meaning but with a slightly more elevated tone.

How does "I was determined" differ from "I was motivated"?

"I was determined" emphasizes resolve and intention, while "I was motivated" focuses on the driving force or reason behind an action. You might be motivated to start a project, but determined to finish it despite challenges.

Is it ever incorrect to use "I was determined"?

It is grammatically correct, but semantically may be unfitting if the intention wasn't really strong, but it was more a wishful thinking. In such cases you can consider using "I had every intention" instead.