a determined individual

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a determined individual" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is resolute and persistent in achieving their goals or objectives. Example: "Despite the challenges she faced, Sarah proved to be a determined individual, never giving up on her dreams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"In the future, it will be practically impossible to avoid being cloned by a determined individual," says Andre Crump, president and founder of DNACI, which set up shop last month.

Science Magazine

Apparently, there is no limit to what can be done to civilian communications satellites by a determined individual with access to a powerful transmitter.

The New York Times - Arts

On Friday, Tony Abbott said it would only take a "determined individual, a knife, an iPhone and a victim" for Islamic State to commit a terrorist attack.

The Guardian

For the film-maker there seems to be an objective reality that a determined individual can penetrate if he is willing to challenge the confining chimeras of markets and machines.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A determined individual such as Euler or Lagrange could emphasize a given program of research through his own work, the publications of the academy, and the setting of the prize competitions.

Britannica

He said: "The regrettable reality is that to mount the kind of attacks which [Isis] in Syria and in Iraq has in mind for Australia, all you need is a determined individual who will kill without compunction, a knife, an iPhone, and a victim.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

"Ray is a tough, determined individual.

The New York Times - Sports

He was a remarkably determined individual and continued his campaign in letters, pamphlets, petitions and lectures.

The Guardian

"When the governor of the state of Florida looks you in the eye and says, 'We'd like to buy your company out' — and Charlie Crist is a very determined individual — our company takes it very seriously," Mr. Coker says.

The New York Times

The story to this point is remarkable enough, a studious and determined individual, uprooting himself from a Caribbean island on a cargo ship, only to cross the world and bring disco to Italy.

Vice

Irish Times journalist Mary Minahan has observed Mary Lou McDonald at close quarters, and said she is a tough-talking, determined individual - but also a "Marmite politician".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a determined individual" to positively highlight someone's commitment and perseverance in overcoming challenges.

Common error

While "a determined individual" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid overuse. Vary your language with synonyms like "resolute person" or "tenacious individual" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a determined individual" functions as a noun phrase, where "determined" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "individual". Ludwig shows it's used to describe someone with strong will.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a determined individual" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe someone who is resolute and persistent. According to Ludwig, it characterizes individuals possessing qualities like perseverance and a strong will to succeed. The phrase appears most frequently in "News & Media" and "Science" contexts, with a neutral register. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "a resolute person" or "a tenacious individual" to maintain writing variety. The analysis indicates that the phrase is well-regarded, scoring a 4.5 expert rating based on grammatical correctness, source authority, and usage consistency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a resolute person

Focuses on the firmness of decision and unwavering nature of the person.

a tenacious individual

Emphasizes the persistence and refusal to give up, even in the face of obstacles.

a driven person

Highlights the internal motivation and ambition that propels the person forward.

a persistent person

Stresses the quality of continuing firmly or obstinately in a course of action despite difficulty or opposition.

a strong-willed individual

Highlights the person's ability to control their own actions and desires.

a purposeful individual

Emphasizes the clarity of goals and intentions that guide the person's actions.

a motivated person

Focuses on the enthusiasm and eagerness that inspires the person to act.

a committed individual

Highlights the dedication and loyalty the person has towards their goals or principles.

an ambitious person

Emphasizes the desire for success and achievement that drives the person.

a dedicated person

Stresses the hard work and focus the person invests in their pursuits.

FAQs

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

You can use "a determined individual" to describe someone who is persistent and resolute in pursuing their goals. For example, "Despite facing numerous setbacks, she remained "a determined individual", never giving up on her dreams."

What are some alternatives to saying "a determined individual"?

Some alternatives include "a resolute person", "a tenacious individual", or "a driven person". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a determined person" or "a determined individual"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Individual" can add a slightly more formal tone, while "person" is more common in everyday conversation.

What qualities define "a determined individual"?

Qualities defining "a determined individual" include persistence, resilience, focus, and a strong commitment to achieving their goals, even when faced with obstacles.