predetermined agenda

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "predetermined agenda" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a plan or set of objectives that have been established in advance, often implying a lack of flexibility or spontaneity. Example: "The meeting was criticized for having a predetermined agenda that did not allow for open discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"There is no predetermined agenda, and I guarantee that there won't be as long as I'm chairman".

The New York Times

The industry, and its Congressional supporters, are trying to use the current upheaval to advance a predetermined agenda.

The New York Times

"There is a predetermined agenda definitely of those who I think are controlling the narrative right now on changes in the weather," Palin said.

The Guardian

This is the whole issue of ideology, and if the ideology is one that you go in with a predetermined agenda, then I don't care if they are a Democrat or a Republican.

The New York Times

And the corruption of the policy process -- in which political appointees come in with a predetermined agenda, and technical experts who might present information their superiors don't want to hear are muzzled -- has infected every area I know anything about, from tax cuts to matters of war and peace.

The New York Times

"What I do have an issue with is the fact that the SPL has relentlessly been pursuing a fixed and predetermined agenda on EBTs from the moment they realised that they would not be able to get Rangers back into the SPL without a fan revolt.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

I shall not miss the press distortions, exaggerations and predetermined agendas but I will miss the cartoons and the sketchwriters.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I suppose what the frustration is, is that much of the agenda is predetermined," she said.

The Guardian

These presidents must go in with their eyes wide open, recognizing that the agenda is predetermined.

Huffington Post

Developing capabilities in open technologies is likely to predetermine the innovation agenda of the focal companies in the given context.

European Journal of Futures Research

Mr. Wen's annual report is the most substantive event at a meeting whose agenda has long been predetermined by the leadership.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations. "Predetermined agenda" often implies a lack of flexibility or openness to alternative perspectives. Choose this phrase when that implication is intentional.

Common error

Avoid using "predetermined agenda" when you intend to convey a neutral or positive sense of planning. The phrase often carries a negative connotation of rigidity or bias. Use a more neutral term like "established plan" if neutrality is desired.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "predetermined agenda" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "predetermined" acts as an adjective modifying "agenda". It describes a plan or a list of items to be discussed that has been decided in advance. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "predetermined agenda" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe a plan or set of objectives decided in advance. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While generally neutral in register, the term often carries a subtle negative connotation, implying inflexibility or a closed-minded approach. Its frequency is uncommon, appearing most often in news and media contexts. When choosing this phrase, consider the potential implications of rigidity it may convey and whether a more neutral alternative might be more appropriate. Alternatives such as "established plan" or "pre-planned strategy" may be better suited for contexts where neutrality is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

predetermined course of action

More explicitly describes the agenda as a plan of action decided beforehand.

fixed plan

This alternative emphasizes the rigidity and unchangeable nature of the plan.

previously decided plan

A simple and direct way of saying a plan was decided earlier.

prearranged scheme

This suggests a plan that has been organized beforehand, often in a secretive way.

pre-planned strategy

Highlights the planning aspect that occurred in advance.

set program

This alternative focuses on a defined series of actions or events.

preconceived strategy

This implies that the strategy was formed before having all the necessary information.

established objective

This phrase highlights the goal that has already been decided upon.

preset objectives

Similar to 'established objective', but places more stress on the advance setting of goals.

preordained course

Implies a destiny-like inevitability to the agenda, suggesting little room for deviation.

FAQs

How can I use "predetermined agenda" in a sentence?

You can use "predetermined agenda" to describe a plan or set of objectives established in advance. For example: "The committee meeting suffered because it followed a "predetermined agenda" that stifled discussion."

What's a more neutral alternative to "predetermined agenda"?

If you want to avoid the negative connotation of inflexibility, consider using "established plan", "set program", or "pre-planned strategy".

What does it mean to have a "predetermined agenda"?

Having a "predetermined agenda" means that the goals, topics, or outcomes of a meeting, discussion, or process have been decided in advance, often implying that input or deviation from the plan is discouraged or impossible.

Is "predetermined agenda" the same as "hidden agenda"?

No. A "predetermined agenda" is known beforehand, even if it is inflexible. A "hidden agenda" is a secret set of goals or motives not openly declared.