a firm determination

USAGE SUMMARY

"a firm determination" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a person's strong, unwavering commitment to do something. For example, "She had a firm determination to succeed in her studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Here in Tokio a scholar must have a firm determination to remain a hermit, otherwise he will be dragged into society & taken round, & he, losing time for study, ceases to be a scholar.

Harvard University

At times so quiet as to seem almost meek, Mr. O'Neill displayed a firm determination to pursue long-term strategic goals even if it meant forsaking short-term profits or breaking with industry practice.

The New York Times

In Nancy Balfour's day, American Survey (now renamed United States) was run on almost military lines, with strict discipline, frugal use of resources and a firm determination to maintain its independence from the rest of the paper.

The Economist

Our duties are practical and call for industrious application, an intelligent perception of the claims of public office, and, above all, a firm determination, by united action, to secure to all the people of the land the full benefits of the best form of government ever vouchsafed to man.

Yale University

As for the troops in the field: "Every individual moving to the Pacific," Marshall said, "should be indoctrinated with a firm determination to see it through". Once the new weapon had been proven, the military leaders went along with the president's decision to use it.

The Washington Post

While there is much speculation over the predominant reasons for the food loss — from unregulated expiration dating to a cultural distaste for aesthetically displeasing fruits and vegetables — one of the most telling aspects of the report is that there is not enough data to make a firm determination.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

To make a firmer determination about links between climate change and infectious disease, researchers need high-quality data collected over long periods detailing changes in the numerous factors that go into the spread of disease.

Environmental Health Perspectives

He was also a sophisticated artist with a cool but firm determination, precisely the sort of figure Mr. Marsalis is happiest to venerate.

The New York Times

Then the speaker challenges a "man with firm determination" to carry out such a scheme.

Vice

"And all it takes is a man with firm determination".

Vice

He asserts that she nevertheless possessed qualities appreciated in a monarch: warm heart, practical mind, firm determination and sound perception.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's character, using "a firm determination" can effectively highlight their resilience and dedication.

Common error

While appropriate for formal and professional settings, using "a firm determination" too frequently in casual conversation can sound overly formal or stiff. Opt for more natural phrasing like "strong will" or "determined attitude" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a firm determination" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state of mind characterized by resolve and commitment, as demonstrated in Ludwig examples like "Here in Tokio a scholar must have a firm determination to remain a hermit."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a firm determination" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to express strong resolve and commitment. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and real-world examples show its common use in news, academic writing, and other formal contexts. While versatile, remember that more casual phrases may be preferable in informal conversation. When you want to convey unwavering dedication, "a firm determination" is your ally. It's often found in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unwavering resolve

Emphasizes the steadfast and unchanging nature of the determination.

resolute commitment

Highlights the binding nature of the commitment, adding a sense of obligation.

strong will

Focuses on the internal strength and force driving the determination.

determined mindset

Shifts the focus to the mental state and attitude of the person.

unshakable conviction

Highlights the deep-seated belief that fuels the determination.

tenacious pursuit

Emphasizes the persistent and relentless effort towards a goal.

purposeful drive

Highlights the directed energy and motivation behind the determination.

dedicated focus

Focuses on the concentrated attention and commitment to a specific objective.

unyielding dedication

Emphasizes the steadfast and unwavering commitment to a cause or goal.

staunch resolve

Highlights the firmness and dependability of the resolve.

FAQs

How can I use "a firm determination" in a sentence?

You can use "a firm determination" to describe someone's unwavering commitment to a goal. For example: "Despite the challenges, she approached the project with "a firm determination" to succeed."

What are some alternatives to "a firm determination"?

Alternatives to "a firm determination" include "unwavering resolve", "resolute commitment", or "strong will". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "firm determination" or "a firm determination"?

Both "firm determination" and "a firm determination" are grammatically correct. "A firm determination" is used when referring to a specific instance of determination, while "firm determination" can be used more generally to describe a quality or characteristic.

What is the difference between "determination" and "firm determination"?

"Determination" refers to the quality of being determined, while ""a firm determination"" emphasizes the strength and resoluteness of that determination, indicating a strong and unwavering commitment.