a steadfast determination

USAGE SUMMARY

'a steadfast determination' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express someone's strong will or resolve to do something. For example: "Despite his difficult circumstances, John maintained a steadfast determination to succeed in his career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Often beauty radiates from the eyes of the subject whose proud gaze conveys a steadfast determination to confront a grotesque turn of events with fortitude.

The New York Times

She has a jerk for a boyfriend (Mike Vogel), another one for a father (John Doman), and a steadfast determination to finish college and go on to medical school.

The New York Times

First-time entrepreneurs can rather resemble a puppy crossing a busy highway – overstimulated and overwhelmed, but with a steadfast determination to make it to the other side.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Helen Donohoe, director of public policy at charity Action for Children, said: "It is critical that the government maintains a focused and steadfast determination to sustainably end child poverty.

BBC

The tribes that are intimidated by Isis may turn against them – but only if they can see steadfast determination and a real plan.

Independent

He fought with vigor and intelligence and was proud of winning dignity and job protections for his members and never waivered in his steadfast determination to pursue a progressive agenda.

The New York Times

... I am satisfied with the mystery of life's eternity and with the awareness of — and glimpse into — the marvelous construction of the existing world together with the steadfast determination to comprehend a portion, be it ever so tiny, of the reason that manifests itself in nature.

HuffPost

And there's another Texas mainstay in town: ALEJANDRO ESCOVEDO, an eloquent chronicler of mourning and steadfast determination.

The New York Times

It seemed that they were affiliated with the Workers World Party, a socialist group known for stringent pronouncements that hark back to the Cold War — a recent article in the W.W.P. newspaper hailed the "steadfast determination" of North Korea and its leaders.

The New Yorker

In particular, those Iraqi government forces that have fought to regain more than half of the territory previously dominated by ISIS have shown steadfast determination and earned enduring respect as they battle an armed group that is the common enemy of Iraq and the United States.

Huffington Post

A life of generosity, of adventure and exploration, of challenge and triumph and steadfast determination.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a steadfast determination" when you want to emphasize the unwavering and resolute nature of someone's commitment to a goal. It conveys a sense of strength and resilience.

Common error

While "a steadfast determination" is appropriate in formal settings, it might sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation. Choose a simpler phrase like "strong will" or "persistence" for informal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a steadfast determination" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence to describe a quality or attribute. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a steadfast determination" is a grammatically sound and usable noun phrase that denotes a strong and unwavering commitment. While Ludwig confirms its correctness, its frequency is uncommon. Predominantly found in news and media, academic writing, and scientific contexts, this phrase conveys a sense of resolve and resilience. Remember that in very informal situations, a simpler and less formal phrase could be used instead.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unwavering resolve

Focuses on the unwavering nature of the resolve.

unshakable commitment

Emphasizes the strength and stability of the commitment.

persistent dedication

Highlights the continuous and dedicated effort.

firm resolve

Shortens the phrase while retaining the core meaning of determination.

resolute will

Emphasizes the strength of will and purpose.

dogged perseverance

Focuses on the tenacious and persistent nature of the effort.

determined persistence

Highlights the quality of being determined and persistent.

unyielding spirit

Shifts focus to the indomitable and unyielding nature of the spirit.

tenacious grip

Metaphorically suggests a firm and unwavering hold on one's goals.

iron will

Emphasizes the strength and inflexibility of the will.

FAQs

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

You can use "a steadfast determination" to describe someone's unwavering commitment to a goal. For example, "Despite the challenges, she showed "a steadfast determination" to finish the project".

What are some alternatives to "a steadfast determination"?

Some alternatives to "a steadfast determination" include "unwavering resolve", "unshakable commitment", or "persistent dedication", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "steadfast determination" without the article "a"?

While grammatically acceptable, using the article "a" emphasizes a specific instance of determination. Saying "steadfast determination" without the article is more general and abstract.

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

"A steadfast determination" implies a more unwavering and resolute commitment compared to "a firm determination", which suggests a solid but potentially less persistent resolve.