dogged determination

USAGE SUMMARY

"dogged determination" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe someone who shows a determined attitude even when adversity or difficult obstacles stand in their way. For example, "She had a dogged determination to finish her college degree despite the many challenges she faced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He approached this last battle as he had all others — with grim and dogged determination.

The New York Times

But dammit, they're trying, and you can't help but admire their dogged determination.

The Washington Post

It took a decade and a half of conviction, investment, and dogged determination.

The New York Times

Martin disagreed, saying his "dogged determination may have been translated into arrogance".

The New York Times - Sports

"If you really need it, by dogged determination you'll make that thing work".

The New York Times

Despite this, our dogged determination to catch the person responsible should not be underestimated.

The Guardian

His dogged determination refuses to consider the nuances I keep putting forward.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Rangers are hoping some of Cherneski's dogged determination rubs off on Brendl.

The New York Times - Sports

Returning annually, he had a dogged determination to find nature's underlying poetic truth.

The New York Times

Tottenham Hotspur's performance was all dogged determination and honest team play.

The Guardian - Sport

Certainly, though, through his dogged determination, Giuliani has broken new scientific ground.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a long and arduous process, using "dogged determination" can highlight the unwavering commitment required to achieve the final result.

Common error

Avoid using "dogged determination" when simpler terms like "persistence" or "resolve" would suffice. Overusing this phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily dramatic or contrived in everyday contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dogged determination" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes a quality or attribute. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage in various contexts. It signifies a resolute and persistent approach to overcoming obstacles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Sports

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dogged determination" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase that effectively conveys a sense of unwavering persistence and resolve. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and versatility. It is commonly found in news media, sports reporting, and business contexts, serving to highlight a strong commitment to achieving goals despite challenges. Related phrases include "unyielding resolve", "persistent tenacity", and "relentless perseverance", each emphasizing different aspects of unwavering commitment. When using "dogged determination", it's best to reserve it for situations where the perseverance is truly tested, and to avoid overuse in everyday scenarios. Overall, the phrase remains a powerful tool for emphasizing the strength of someone's commitment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unyielding resolve

Emphasizes the firmness and inflexibility of the determination.

persistent tenacity

Highlights the continuous and unwavering effort in pursuing a goal.

relentless perseverance

Focuses on the continuous and unwavering effort despite obstacles.

unshakable conviction

Stresses the firmness and depth of belief driving the determination.

steadfast commitment

Highlights a loyal and unwavering dedication to a particular cause or goal.

determined persistence

Reverses the order of the original phrase while keeping the core meaning.

grim persistence

Adds an element of severity or seriousness to the persistence.

resolute will

Focuses on the strong and unwavering will behind the determination.

iron will

Emphasizes the strength and inflexibility of will involved.

strong mindedness

Underlines the firmness and purposefulness of one's approach.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "dogged determination" in a sentence?

Use "dogged determination" to describe a character or entity's persistent and unwavering effort in the face of significant challenges. For example, "Despite numerous setbacks, she approached the project with "dogged determination", refusing to give up".

What are some alternatives to "dogged determination" that I can use?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "unyielding resolve", "persistent tenacity", or "relentless perseverance" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "dogged determination" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "dogged determination" is appropriate for formal writing. It effectively communicates a strong sense of persistence and resolve, making it suitable for professional reports, academic papers, and other formal contexts.

What distinguishes "dogged determination" from simple "determination"?

"Dogged determination" implies a persistent and unwavering commitment, even in the face of significant obstacles or setbacks. Simple "determination" may not necessarily convey the same level of tenacity and resolve in challenging circumstances.