determination to excel

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "determination to excel" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's strong resolve or commitment to achieve high standards or success in a particular area. Example: "Her determination to excel in her studies has earned her numerous academic awards."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

That determination to excel extends even to their physical appearance.

The Economist

Huang's determination to excel academically despite tough financial circumstances won her a spot among this year's scholars.

The New York Times

The first in his family to attend college directly after high school, Myron has always held onto an unyielding determination to excel and earn a degree.

Cornell University

The first in his family to attend college directly after high school, he has always held onto an unyielding determination to excel in his academics and earn a degree.

Cornell University

Cornell's 'positive energy' is just what Myron Spikes '22 was looking for- The first in his family to attend college directly after high school, Myron has always held onto an unyielding determination to excel and earn a degree.

Cornell University

He towered over many of the other kids in his Brooklyn neighborhood not just for his uncommon height and intellect, but most of all, perhaps, for his determination to excel, and for how much he reveled in whatever stature he attained.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Harry was competitive and determined to excel.

The New York Times

Such determination, such striving to excel, requires leaders—not just controllers, market analysts, and portfolio managers.

Harvard Business Review

While this deal represents a successful exit for the Jabbar Group, we have little doubt in Cobone's commitment to the region and in Paul's determination to continue excelling and leading his brainchild to new successes".

TechCrunch

It was that determination and commitment that enabled Eisley to excel when given his first opportunity of the season Tuesday night.

The New York Times - Sports

He did his best to put a positive spin on the move, describing it as a "new beginning" for the company: "A court-­supervised process and transfer of assets will enable a new GM to emerge as a stronger, healthier, more focused and nimbler company with a determination not to just survive but to excel".

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's work ethic, use "determination to excel" to highlight their proactive and persistent pursuit of high standards.

Common error

Avoid using "determination to excel" to describe someone who is inflexibly focused on flawlessness, as it focuses on the positive drive for improvement, rather than a potentially negative obsession with perfection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "determination to excel" functions as a noun phrase that describes a quality or characteristic. It indicates a strong resolve or commitment to achieving high levels of performance or success. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "determination to excel" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that expresses a strong commitment to achieving high standards. Ludwig AI identifies its purpose in conveying admiration and highlighting positive attributes. While suitable for formal and neutral registers, it commonly appears in news, media, and academic contexts. For alternative phrasing, consider "drive to succeed" or "commitment to excellence", but avoid confusing it with an unhealthy obsession with perfection. Overall, the phrase effectively describes a proactive pursuit of improvement and is well-received in diverse professional environments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Drive to succeed

Focuses more on the motivation and ambition behind achieving a goal.

Commitment to excellence

Emphasizes dedication and high standards rather than just achievement.

Ambition to excel

Highlights the desire for outstanding performance and distinction.

Resolve to achieve

Focuses on the firmness of purpose in accomplishing something.

Determination to surpass

Suggests an aim to exceed existing standards or accomplishments.

Eagerness to excel

Indicates enthusiasm and keenness in striving for excellence.

Striving for excellence

Emphasizes the continuous effort put into achieving high quality.

Passion for perfection

Highlights an intense enthusiasm for flawless results.

Dedication to mastery

Focuses on commitment to gaining comprehensive skill or knowledge.

Will to achieve greatness

Emphasizes the mental strength and desire to attain remarkable accomplishments.

FAQs

What does "determination to excel" mean?

It refers to a strong and unwavering commitment to achieve the highest possible standards or levels of performance in a particular field or endeavor.

How can I use "determination to excel" in a sentence?

You might say, "Her "drive to succeed", combined with her natural talent, made her a top performer," or "His "commitment to excellence" was evident in every task he undertook".

What are some alternative phrases for "determination to excel"?

Alternatives include "drive to succeed", "commitment to excellence", or "ambition to excel", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "determination to excel" and "striving for perfection"?

Yes, "determination to excel" emphasizes a positive drive for continuous improvement and high achievement, while "striving for perfection" can imply an unrealistic or even detrimental pursuit of flawlessness.