a lack of determination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a lack of determination" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone does not have the will or resolve to pursue a goal or task. Example: "Her failure to complete the project was largely due to a lack of determination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"The building is a site for installation," he said, "but, ideally, there is a lack of determination.

The New York Times - Arts

Joseph Thomas, policy officer for Interns Anonymous, said: "These documents show cowardice and a lack of determination to do anything.

The Guardian - Money

But, he said, he sees "a series of obstacles and a lack of determination" on both sides.

The New York Times

Mr Bernanke blames Japan's defective banking system and a lack of determination by policymakers to fight deflation.

The Economist

If Brandt Snedeker is to fall short at the culmination of the 77th Masters, it will not be down to a lack of determination.

The Guardian - Sport

Some have seen this irreverence and his often indifferent training as signs of a lack of determination in a sport that demands exhaustive preparation.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

As a fire performance-based design contains different steps, not only fire modeling, it is clear that a lack of overall determination of uncertainty and error estimate for the complete performance-based design process exists.

Procedia Engineering

At the same time, the state continues to wage war against a leftwing insurgency born of frustration over a lack of self-determination.

The Guardian

He found most attacks were secular and motivated by feelings of a lack of self-determination within the local community.

Huffington Post

Motives for return were a lack of self-determination in Germany (8%, two participants); the desire to die in the country of origin (28%, seven participants); and the avoidance of forced return (64%, 16 participants).

BMC Psychiatry

The Americans defeated Barbados, 7-0, in an earlier qualifying match in Foxboro, Mass., and the Caribbean team is beset by a lack of money and a seeming lack of determination.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a lack of determination", consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the reason for failure or inaction. Be specific about what area the determination is lacking in for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a lack of determination" as a catch-all explanation for complex failures. Always investigate and specify the underlying reasons for this lack, such as fear, insufficient resources, or poor planning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lack of determination" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes the absence of resolve or willpower. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a lack of determination" is a grammatically correct and usable noun phrase that effectively conveys the absence of resolve or willpower. While frequently found in news and media sources, as highlighted by Ludwig AI, its application extends to scientific and general contexts. When employing this phrase, be mindful of providing specific reasons for this deficiency, as vague applications can diminish its impact. Alternatives like "insufficient resolve" and "absence of commitment" may offer nuanced expressions depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insufficient resolve

This alternative emphasizes the inadequate level of determination or resolve.

absence of commitment

This phrase focuses on the missing dedication or obligation toward a goal.

deficiency in purpose

This highlights the lack of clear goals or aims.

want of persistence

This alternative stresses the shortage of continuous effort or tenacity.

inadequate motivation

This focuses on the insufficient drive or incentive to act.

weak willpower

This highlights the absence of strong mental strength to pursue a goal.

limited ambition

This alternative emphasizes reduced or constrained desire for achievement.

little initiative

This stresses the scarcity of proactive or self-starting behavior.

meager resolve

This highlights the small or scanty amount of determination.

feebleness of purpose

This alternative underlines the weakness or lack of strength in the intended goal.

FAQs

How can I use "a lack of determination" in a sentence?

You can use "a lack of determination" to explain why someone failed to achieve a goal. For instance, "The project's failure was attributed to "a lack of determination" among the team members".

What are some alternatives to "a lack of determination"?

Alternatives include "insufficient resolve", "absence of commitment", or "deficiency in purpose". The best choice depends on the specific context you're writing in.

Is it better to say "lack of determination" or "a lack of determination"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "a lack of determination" is generally preferred in sentences where you are specifying a particular instance or case. "Lack of determination" is more general. For example, you might speak of "the lack of determination" in a football team versus "a lack of determination" of someone that did not finish the race.

How does "a lack of determination" differ from "procrastination"?

"A lack of determination" refers to an absence of resolve or will to pursue a goal, while "procrastination" involves delaying or postponing tasks despite having the intention to complete them. Procrastination implies intent, while "a lack of determination" suggests insufficient intent from the start.