determination not to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "determination not to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiomatic way to express a strong resolve to not do something. Example sentence: "He showed a determination not to be swayed by the argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It also showed their determination not to miss that chance.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is determination not to waste this chance.

The Guardian - Sport

What made the woman so memorable was her determination not to cry or seem weak.

The New York Times

Her determination not to be the victim is what makes this story so moving.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Mr Johnson refused, out of a determination not to bow to tabloid pressure, and was dismissed.

The Guardian

As will be the determination not to let it happen again.

The Guardian - Sport

Elinor's determination not to think about the war comes off as narcissistic denial.

The New York Times - Books

Obama's initial response was plainly based on a determination not to take sides.

The New Yorker

Stronger still than the encroaching panic, however, is Mariane's determination not to cave in to it.

The New Yorker

Then the Fed's determination not to be rushed might turn out to be a big mistake.

The New York Times

Prada and Schiaparelli are most alike in their absolute determination not to resemble anyone.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “determination not to” when you want to emphasize a conscious and deliberate decision to avoid a particular action or outcome. It's particularly effective when highlighting resilience or resistance against pressure.

Common error

Avoid overuse of abstract nouns like "determination." Instead of saying "He showed a determination not to fail", try "He was determined to succeed" for a more direct and active voice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "determination not to" functions as a noun phrase expressing a firm decision or resolve against a particular action or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, such as "determination not to be bullied" or "determination not to let something happen again."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "determination not to" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to express a firm decision to avoid a particular action or outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it conveys a strong sense of resolve and is frequently found in news and media contexts. While alternatives like "resolve not to" or "commitment to avoid" exist, "determination not to" emphasizes the noun form of resolve. To enhance clarity and avoid wordiness, consider using the adjective form "determined not to" in some instances. Its widespread usage and authoritative source backing make it a reliable choice for expressing resolute intentions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

firm stand against

Conveys a resolute position of opposition, emphasizing the unwavering nature of the decision.

determination to resist

Stresses the act of actively opposing or fighting against something, indicating a strong will to overcome.

resolve to prevent

Highlights the intention to stop something from happening, often implying proactive measures.

resolve against

Emphasizes a firm decision made after considering reasons against something; carries a slightly more formal tone.

commitment to avoid

Highlights a pledge or promise to prevent something from happening, indicating a sense of duty or obligation.

intention to abstain from

Focuses on the act of voluntarily refraining from something, often implying a conscious effort.

decision to reject

Underscores a conscious choice to refuse or turn down something, often in response to an offer or proposal.

will to forgo

Emphasizes the willingness to give up or do without something, suggesting a degree of self-denial.

purpose of evading

Focuses on the aim of escaping or avoiding something, often implying a desire to circumvent a challenge or obstacle.

endeavor to circumvent

Highlights an attempt to bypass or go around something, often indicating a clever or strategic approach.

FAQs

How can I use "determination not to" in a sentence?

You can use "determination not to" to express a firm decision to avoid something. For example, "Her "determination not to cry" was evident despite the difficult circumstances."

What are some alternatives to "determination not to"?

Some alternatives include "resolve not to", "commitment to avoid", or simply being "determined to resist".

Is it better to say "determination not to" or "determined not to"?

While both are correct, "determined not to" is often more concise and direct. "Determination not to" emphasizes the noun form of resolve, while "determined not to" highlights the state of being resolved.

What's the difference between "determination not to" and "desire not to"?

"Determination not to" implies a stronger, more resolute decision compared to "desire not to", which suggests a preference but not necessarily a firm commitment. Determination often involves overcoming obstacles.