are predetermined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are predetermined" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that has already been decided or planned in advance. Example: The outcome of the experiment was not random, as all variables were predetermined by the researchers.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Registers are predetermined memory locations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Elections are predetermined in Yemen," Almas said.

The New Yorker

These areas are predetermined and appear as translucent green outlines.

The Guardian - Tech

Even the details of the action are predetermined.

The New Yorker

There are always elements of the future that are predetermined.

Harvard Business Review

There also isn't much choice or variety, since all combinations of food are predetermined.

The Guardian - Tech

In these more recent films the correct positions are predetermined and beyond question.

The New York Times

Strictly speaking, you can forecast the future only when all of its elements are predetermined.

Harvard Business Review

Amounts, eligibility requirements, terms and conditions are predetermined by each financial institution.

Columbia University

The size of organs like our hearts, stomachs, and lungs are predetermined during development.

Stanford University

Amounts, eligibility requirements, terms and conditions are predetermined by federal guidelines.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are predetermined" when you want to emphasize that a decision or outcome was set in advance, often implying a lack of flexibility or change. For example, "The project's phases are predetermined, ensuring a structured approach."

Common error

Avoid using "are predetermined" when describing situations where outcomes can still be influenced. If factors remain flexible, phrases like "are expected" or "are likely" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are predetermined" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject is acted upon. It highlights that something has been decided or established in advance by an external agent. As Ludwig AI also points out, it describes something already decided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are predetermined" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that something has been decided or established in advance, often implying a lack of flexibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. While it commonly appears in news, science, and academic writing, it's crucial to understand its connotations of certainty and inflexibility. Alternatives like "are predefined" or "are specified" might be more suitable when describing situations with potential for adjustment. When using "are predetermined", ensure that the context aligns with the intended meaning of a fixed and unchangeable course, enhancing the clarity and accuracy of your writing. The phrase is common, appearing often in prominent sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are preordained

This alternative carries a stronger connotation of fate or divine intervention, suggesting an unchangeable destiny.

are predestined

Similar to 'are preordained', this emphasizes fate or destiny but can also imply a lack of free will.

are destined

This suggests an inevitable outcome, often with a sense of grandeur or importance.

are predefined

This alternative highlights that something is defined in advance, often within a technical or programming context.

are specified

This implies that something has been explicitly stated or detailed, usually within a set of rules or instructions.

are predicted

This suggests that something is expected to happen based on current information, but not necessarily fixed or decided in advance.

are dictated

This conveys that something is controlled or determined by an external authority or force.

are defined

This alternative emphasizes the establishment of clear boundaries or characteristics, rather than a future outcome.

are anticipated

This implies expectation and preparation for something, but not necessarily that it is firmly fixed.

are prescribed

This suggests something is officially recommended or required, often in a medical or legal context.

FAQs

How can I use "are predetermined" in a sentence?

You can use "are predetermined" to indicate that certain factors or outcomes have been decided in advance. For example, "The flight paths "are predetermined" to ensure air traffic safety."

What's a good alternative to "are predetermined"?

Alternatives include phrases like "are predefined", "are preordained", or "are specified". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "is predetermined" instead of "are predetermined"?

No, "is predetermined" is used for singular subjects while "are predetermined" is used for plural subjects. For example, "The budget is predetermined", but "The project milestones "are predetermined"."

What is the difference between "are predetermined" and "are planned"?

"Are planned" indicates that something is scheduled or intended to happen, whereas "are predetermined" suggests a fixed and unchangeable course. Something that "are predetermined" has been decided with no room for adjustments.