determined to

USAGE SUMMARY

"determined to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to show that someone has an intention to do something, and is determined to see it through. For example, "She was determined to overcome her fear of public speaking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He was determined to stay alive, determined to suffer.

Vice

I am determined to go.

Independent

He was determined to win.

The New Yorker

"I'm determined to do it.

The New Yorker

"They're determined to move up.

The New York Times - Sports

He sounded determined to act.

The New Yorker

"We are determined to act".

The New Yorker

I was determined to drive".

The New York Times

SERVICE -- Determined to please.

The New York Times

"She was determined to work on it".

The New York Times - Sports

She returned determined to do something.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "determined to" when you want to emphasize someone's strong will and resolve to achieve a specific goal, especially in the face of obstacles.

Common error

Avoid using "determined to" with unclear or poorly defined goals. Ensure the object of the determination is specific and actionable, otherwise, the statement lacks impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "determined to" functions as a verbal phrase expressing a firm decision or intention. It often modifies a subject, indicating their resolve to achieve a specific goal, as illustrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "determined to" is a very common and grammatically correct verbal phrase used to express a firm decision or intention to achieve a specific goal. As Ludwig AI explains, it conveys a strong sense of commitment and resolve. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, but also present in Formal & Business and Wiki contexts, "determined to" is suitable for neutral registers. Related phrases such as "resolved to" or "intent on" offer similar meanings with subtle variations. Remember to use "determined to" with specific, actionable objectives to maximize its impact, ensuring clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolved to

Implies a firm decision has been made.

intent on

Emphasizes the focus and intention towards a specific goal.

set on

Suggests a strong desire and fixed plan to achieve something.

committed to

Highlights dedication and obligation towards a particular cause or action.

dead set on

Intensifies the determination and resolve.

hell-bent on

Conveys a reckless or unstoppable determination.

driven to

Emphasizes an internal force compelling action.

with the aim of

Focuses on the purpose and objective behind an action.

having the intention of

Formally expresses the plan or purpose behind an action.

taking it upon oneself to

Highlights the voluntary acceptance of responsibility to do something.

FAQs

How to use "determined to" in a sentence?

Use "determined to" to express a firm decision to achieve a specific goal. For example, "She was determined to succeed in her career."

What can I say instead of "determined to"?

You can use alternatives like "resolved to", "intent on", or "committed to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "determined to" or "determine to"?

"Determined to" is the correct form. "Determine to" is grammatically incorrect in most contexts. Use "determined to" to describe a state of mind, while "determine" is a verb indicating the act of deciding.

What's the difference between "determined to" and "trying to"?

"Determined to" implies a strong resolve and unwavering commitment, whereas "trying to" simply suggests an effort is being made without necessarily guaranteeing perseverance. Someone "determined to" succeed will likely overcome obstacles more readily than someone merely "trying to".