it was determination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was determination" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where determination was the key factor in achieving a goal or overcoming an obstacle. Example: "In the end, it was determination that led her to finish the marathon despite the challenges she faced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But while its recent story is one of success, momentum and forward thinking, its past is one of tentative steps and hesitant beginnings, where progress was measured in far smaller increments and output was determined as much by constraints as it was determination and ability.

Vice

I ended up getting a university degree, but it was determination rather than academic ability that got me through.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Call it desperation, but at the time I would've told you it was determination.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

If one word can describe the members of baseball's 4,000-hit 4,000-hitis determination.

The New York Times - Sports

"It doesn't bother me because at the end of the day it's determination over drugs any time.

Independent

"A lot of it is determination and will — 'I don't care who is in the way,' " said Jim Gabarra, who coached Wambach in two professional leagues.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's determination that keeps you at the top.

BBC

In the long run, it is determination as much as military power that will make our victory possible.

Forbes

If there are two things you learn from spending the early summer months in the UK, it's determination and spontaneity.

Huffington Post

I don't know if it's confidence, but I do know that it's determination, and it's an insatiable appetite to work.

Huffington Post

In a world that challenges us to be better, faster, prettier, smarter, seamless, timeless, cultured, accommodating, and above all, influential, perhaps it's determination that will separate the cake consumers from the bakers.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was determination" to emphasize that a specific quality or trait—rather than external factors—was crucial in achieving a result. This framing can add impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it was determination" when external factors significantly influenced the outcome. Ensure that determination was the primary driver, not merely a contributing element.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was determination" functions as a subject complement, emphasizing the attribute or quality that defined a particular situation or action. Ludwig AI shows that this phrase appears in sentences where a specific trait is highlighted as the key factor.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was determination" serves to highlight the central role of resolve in achieving a goal or overcoming a challenge. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct but not extremely frequent, predominantly appearing in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that determination truly was the defining factor. While alternatives like "willpower prevailed" or "resolve was decisive" exist, "it was determination" offers a clear and direct way to emphasize the power of inner drive.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

determination was the key

Focuses on determination as the most important element.

willpower prevailed

Highlights the strength of will as the dominant factor.

resolve was decisive

Emphasizes the firm decision-making aspect.

sheer grit was the deciding factor

Underlines the importance of courage and resolve.

tenacity made the difference

Highlights the persistent effort applied.

perseverance led to success

Stresses the continuous effort over time.

doggedness secured the victory

Emphasizes the stubborn persistence.

unwavering commitment was essential

Highlights the focus and dedication.

a firm purpose was critical

Focuses on clarity of intention.

self-determination played a part

Highlights that the agent is in control of his choices.

FAQs

How can I use "it was determination" in a sentence?

Use "it was determination" to highlight that a specific goal was achieved mainly due to someone's strong will or resolve. For instance, "In the end, "it was determination" that allowed her to overcome the obstacles and win the race".

What are some alternatives to "it was determination"?

Alternatives include "willpower prevailed", "resolve was decisive", or "sheer grit was the deciding factor" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "it was determined" or "it was determination"?

"It was determined" implies that a decision was made, while "it was determination" suggests that a quality of resolve led to a result. The correct choice depends on the intended meaning.

What is the difference between "it was determination" and "it was intention"?

"It was determination" focuses on the effort and persistence applied, whereas "it was intention" highlights the aim or purpose behind an action. "It was intention" suggests a goal, while "it was determination" emphasizes the drive to achieve it.