grim determination

USAGE SUMMARY

"grim determination" is a correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe someone's resolute or unyielding attitude or mindset in the face of difficulties or challenges. Example: Despite the harsh conditions and daunting obstacles, the team pressed on with grim determination, refusing to give up until they reached the summit of the mountain.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

He does so with a grim determination.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I carry nothing but a bad attitude and grim determination.

Independent

His grim determination is based on concrete realities.

The Economist

It was not always undertaken with grim determination.

The New York Times

There's a grim determination to Wayne Sleep in We're A Couple of Swells.

Independent

Williams followed Federer onto the big stage wearing a look of grim determination.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Chen's grim determination has fueled a political career of vertiginous highs and pitiful lows.

The New York Times

Odom understood the complexity of the situation and appeared to be soldiering on with grim determination.

The New York Times - Magazine

The Jets approached their off-season acquisitions with a grim determination borne of disappointment.

The New York Times - Sports

Or might she be satirizing old-school feminists' grim determination to equal men in all endeavors?

The New York Times - Arts

She has the right mix of shining purity and grim determination and is very good indeed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "grim determination" to portray a character or entity facing significant adversity, highlighting their unwavering commitment to overcome challenges. This phrase is effective when you want to convey a sense of seriousness and unwavering resolve in the face of difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "grim determination" in situations where a lighter or more optimistic approach is warranted. The phrase implies a difficult or unpleasant task, so it's inappropriate for describing enjoyable activities or easily achievable goals.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grim determination" functions as a noun phrase, where "grim" modifies "determination". It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a state of mind or approach to a task. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is considered correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grim determination" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe unwavering resolve in the face of adversity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for use in various contexts, particularly in news and media. The phrase indicates a serious and resolute approach, often associated with difficult or unpleasant tasks. When choosing alternatives, consider phrases like "unyielding resolve" or "relentless tenacity" to convey similar meanings with slight shifts in tone. Remember to avoid overusing "grim determination" in positive contexts, and instead, reserve it for situations where challenges and difficulties are prominent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

iron will

Focuses on the strength and inflexibility of the determination.

resolute commitment

Focuses on the firm and unwavering promise to a course of action.

stern resolve

Indicates a serious and unwavering determination.

unyielding resolve

Emphasizes the firmness and inflexibility of the decision.

determined persistence

Highlights the continuous and resolute effort to achieve a goal.

fierce dedication

Emphasizes the intense and passionate nature of the commitment.

relentless tenacity

Highlights the persistent and unwavering nature of the effort.

implacable will

Suggests an unappeasable and inflexible determination.

adamant resolve

Stresses the unwavering and resolute quality of the decision.

dogged perseverance

Stresses the stubborn and determined continuation despite obstacles.

FAQs

How can I use "grim determination" in a sentence?

You can use "grim determination" to describe someone's unwavering resolve in the face of challenges. For example, "Despite the setbacks, she continued her work with grim determination."

What phrases are similar to "grim determination"?

Similar phrases include "unyielding resolve", "relentless tenacity", or "dogged perseverance", each conveying a sense of firm commitment.

Is "grim determination" appropriate for describing positive experiences?

No, "grim determination" is generally used to describe a serious and challenging effort, not a positive or enjoyable experience. Consider alternatives like "enthusiastic pursuit" or "passionate dedication" for positive contexts.

What's the difference between "grim determination" and "strong will"?

"Grim determination" implies facing adversity with resolve, while "strong will" suggests an inherent character trait of resoluteness, irrespective of immediate challenges. "Grim determination" is situation-specific.