a matter of determination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a matter of determination" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance of resolve or commitment in achieving a goal or overcoming a challenge. Example: "Success in this project is not just about skill; it's a matter of determination and perseverance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Outside of fiction, this kind of strength is mainly a matter of determination.

The New Yorker

"For Netherlands, I think it's a matter of determination.

BBC

While incumbents frequently have advantages in money and name identification, there is no reason that a challenger can't have the most yard signs - it's simply a matter of determination and aggressive yard sign recruiting.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

As this workshop shows, ending violence across Myanmar is only a matter of courage, determination and will," Mr. Bainvel added.

Unicef

Or is it really just a simple matter of determination, willpower or mind over matter?

Huffington Post

Boeheim said: "Neither team could get anything done offensively, so it was a matter of will and determination that would decide who won".

The New York Times - Sports

It's a little hard to account for this, but I think it's partly a matter of Wolfe's determination to give you your money's worth, whether you want it or not.

The Guardian - Books

He denied the charge of emanationism, claiming that in his thought "it is not a matter of the self-determination of being, but rather the self-determination of nothingness" (NKZ VI, 154).

SEP

Virtuous action is therefore a matter of active internal self-determination, rather than determination from without.

SEP

So too, as a matter of history and legal determination, the prospect for self-pardon lacks all credibility.

Huffington Post

While differences of native T1 dGEMRIC values (T1) in normal hyaline cartilage can be neglected, it remains a matter of current investigations whether determination of native T1 dGEMRIC values in precontrast MRIs is necessary for evaluation of cartilage repair tissue [ 110, 119– 119].

BioMed Research International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a matter of determination" when you want to emphasize that achieving something depends primarily on someone's resolve and effort, rather than external factors or innate talent.

Common error

While generally acceptable, in highly formal or academic writing, consider stronger, more precise synonyms like "a question of resolve" or "dependent on willpower" to convey a more nuanced meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase functions as a predicate nominative, describing what is required or essential for a particular outcome. Ludwig AI indicates it highlights the importance of resolve and commitment.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a matter of determination" is a grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize that achieving a goal depends primarily on resolve and effort. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity. While generally acceptable, consider stronger synonyms for highly formal contexts. Its register is typically neutral, found in news, scientific, and business settings. Related phrases like "a question of resolve" and "dependent on willpower" offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. When writing, use the phrase to underscore the importance of inner strength and proactive effort.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a question of resolve

Replaces "matter" with "question" and "determination" with "resolve", slightly altering the emphasis but maintaining the core meaning.

a product of perseverance

Shifts the focus to the outcome of persistent effort rather than the effort itself.

dependent on willpower

Highlights the reliance on inner strength and self-control.

hinges on commitment

Emphasizes the crucial role of dedication.

a function of tenacity

Replaces determination with tenacity, emphasizing persistence and resolve.

a result of dedication

Focuses on the outcome being directly caused by commitment and hard work.

requiring great fortitude

Highlights the need for courage and resilience to face challenges.

a simple question of grit

Simplifies the expression, emphasizing the importance of courage and resolve in overcoming obstacles.

based on personal drive

Focuses on the intrinsic motivation that fuels determined action.

down to sheer grit

Highlights the importance of raw courage and resolve.

FAQs

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

You can use "a matter of determination" to emphasize that success depends on someone's resolve and effort. For example, "Overcoming this challenge is "a matter of determination" and hard work".

What can I say instead of "a matter of determination"?

You can use alternatives like "a question of resolve", "dependent on willpower", or "a product of perseverance" depending on the context.

Is "a matter of determination" formal or informal?

The phrase "a matter of determination" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, for very formal or academic writing, you might consider more precise alternatives.

What's the difference between "a matter of determination" and "a matter of willpower"?

While similar, "a matter of determination" emphasizes resolve and effort, whereas "a matter of willpower" specifically highlights the inner strength and self-control needed to achieve something.