determine so

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "determine so" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It is unclear in its usage and does not fit standard English expressions. Example: "I need you to determine so that we can proceed with the project." (This example is awkward and unclear.)

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Ongoing debates aside, physical environment can only determine so much.

The Guardian

But three barriers – quality, availability and price – determine so many decisions".

Independent

Is there some other framework we need for thinking about the choices that Google and Facebook make that determine so much of our life?

The New Yorker

But Mr. Romney, the former Massachusetts governor, may, like Mr. Perry, decide that news organizations should not be able to determine so much of his schedule.

The New York Times

"How are you going to hear your old self through that?" This savagely funny book satirises the empty rituals and political theatre that determine so much of our response to returned veterans.

The Guardian - Books

Above all, in a rapidly changing world where global forces determine so much of our lives, from the elbow room of our elected representatives even to the survival of our planet, rooting what we stand for in the sense of belonging, well-being of the people we call our fellow citizens and the liberation of talent has to be both common sense and good politics.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The essential aim of this security check is to determine so-called "exposition scenarios", which facilitates the assessment of the occurrence of unacceptable or dangerous exposure created by the evaluated chemical.

Environmental Sciences Europe

Laboratory studies are needed to determine so-called evaporation coefficients under conditions of flash heating.

Chemical Reviews

He's looking so focused, so determined, so Lendl-like.

The Guardian - Sport

The final 5 40 of regulation determined so much.

The New York Times - Sports

They are so unconscious of the abyss of ridicule which they skirt, so determined, so conscientious, so bravely provincial".

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, replace "determine so" with more direct alternatives like "determine that" or "decide this."

Common error

Avoid using "determine so" in formal writing; it can sound unnatural. Instead, opt for clearer constructions such as "determine that" or rephrase the sentence for better flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "determine so" functions as a connector, aiming to link an action with a resulting condition or state. However, Ludwig indicates that this phrasing is not correct and lacks clarity in standard English. It attempts to express purpose or consequence but does so awkwardly.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "determine so" is considered grammatically incorrect and lacks clarity, according to Ludwig. While attempts to use it appear in both news and scientific contexts, it's advisable to opt for more precise and grammatically sound alternatives. Phrases like "determine that", "decide this", or rephrasing the sentence are recommended to ensure effective communication. Using these alternatives will enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing, especially in formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

determine that

Focuses on establishing a specific fact or conclusion.

determine in order to

Specifies the purpose behind the determination, clarifying intent.

decide conclusively

Highlights the finality and decisiveness of the decision-making process.

establish definitively

Emphasizes the act of proving or confirming something without doubt.

ascertain precisely

Focuses on discovering something accurately and exactly.

influence significantly

Shifts focus to affecting an outcome or decision to a notable degree.

dictate entirely

Suggests complete control or command over a particular outcome.

shape decisively

Highlights the act of molding or influencing a specific result.

cause consequently

Emphasizes a direct cause-and-effect relationship, leading to a specific outcome.

result substantially

Focuses on a considerable impact or effect as a consequence.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "determine so" for clarity?

Consider using more direct alternatives such as "determine that" or rephrasing the sentence to use "decide" or "establish" depending on the context.

Is "determine so" grammatically correct?

While you might encounter the phrase "determine so", it's generally considered awkward and grammatically weak. Opt for clearer and more precise alternatives.

What's a more formal alternative to "determine so"?

In formal contexts, replace "determine so" with phrases like "establish that" or "ascertain" to maintain a professional tone.

How does context affect the best alternative for "determine so"?

The best alternative depends on the intended meaning. If you mean to conclude something, use "determine that". If you mean to influence something, rephrase to reflect that influence directly.