lack of determination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of determination" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone does not have the will or resolve to pursue a goal or task. Example: "His lack of determination to finish the project on time was evident in his procrastination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Many good writers start off and fall by the wayside through lack of determination.

The Guardian

And if he doesn't, it will not be for lack of determination.

The Guardian - Sport

Again, the conciliatory words should not be taken as softness or lack of determination.

The Guardian - Opinion

It has yet to happen, and not for lack of determination.

The New York Times - Food

"The building is a site for installation," he said, "but, ideally, there is a lack of determination.

The New York Times - Arts

Joseph Thomas, policy officer for Interns Anonymous, said: "These documents show cowardice and a lack of determination to do anything.

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Finally, the lack of determinations of established cardiovascular risk factors and of other occupational exposures may have contributed to uncontrolled confounding.

Environmental Health Perspectives

An unstated lesson is that lack of clarity, determination and flexibility in either the political or the military realm can lead to calamity.

The New York Times - Arts

"Every time coming into April we had a chance of winning the league, and I know – because of our indiscipline and our lack of drive, determination and professionalism – that we would fall away at the end, and we did".

The Guardian - Sport

As a fire performance-based design contains different steps, not only fire modeling, it is clear that a lack of overall determination of uncertainty and error estimate for the complete performance-based design process exists.

Procedia Engineering

This missing alignment shows clearly in the current lack of courage, determination, and imagination to carry through the necessary actions to combat climate disruption.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing a failure, specify if the "lack of determination" was due to internal factors (e.g. motivation) or external obstacles (e.g. resources).

Common error

Avoid attributing failure solely to a "lack of determination" without considering if external factors such as resource limitations or systemic barriers played a significant role. Sometimes, people want to succeed, they just lack the tools.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of determination" functions as a noun phrase. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes the absence of resolve or persistence. Examples show its use in explaining failures or describing personal qualities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

20%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lack of determination" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the absence of resolve or persistence, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's frequently used in news and media to explain failures or shortcomings. While the phrase is generally acceptable, it's important to consider other factors beyond just willpower. Alternatives such as "absence of resolve" or "deficiency in motivation" can provide slightly different nuances. When writing, be specific about the causes and effects of the "lack of determination" for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absence of resolve

This alternative focuses on the missing quality of making firm decisions.

deficiency in motivation

This phrase emphasizes the insufficient drive to achieve a goal.

want of persistence

This alternative highlights the absence of sustained effort.

insufficient willpower

This phrase stresses the inadequate mental strength to pursue something.

inadequate drive

This focuses on the insufficient force or energy to move forward.

feebleness of purpose

This alternative suggests a weak or indistinct intention.

shortage of commitment

This highlights the absence of dedication to a cause or goal.

paucity of ambition

This phrase emphasizes a limited desire for achievement.

failure to persevere

This focuses on the act of not continuing despite difficulties.

absence of grit

This implies a lack of courage and resolve in the face of challenges.

FAQs

How can I use "lack of determination" in a sentence?

You can use "lack of determination" to describe a reason for failure or a character trait. For instance, "His "lack of determination" led to the project's abandonment" or "A "lack of determination" is a common obstacle to success".

What are some alternatives to "lack of determination"?

Alternatives include "absence of resolve", "deficiency in motivation", or "insufficient willpower", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "lack of determination" or "lacking determination"?

Both are grammatically correct. "Lack of determination" is a noun phrase often used as a subject or object, while "lacking determination" is a participial phrase often used to describe someone or something: "His problem was a "lack of determination""; "He was "lacking determination"".

What is the difference between "lack of determination" and "lack of motivation"?

"Lack of motivation" refers specifically to the absence of the drive or desire to do something. "Lack of determination", on the other hand, refers to the absence of resolve or persistence in pursuing a goal, even in the face of challenges. You might have motivation but still a "lack of determination" to see things through.