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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
they have determination
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "they have determination" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or a group of people who possess a strong will or resolve to achieve their goals. Example: "Despite the challenges they faced, they have determination to succeed in their endeavors."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Wiki
Formal & Business
Science
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
"They opened their arms" without weapons "to say that they are civilians, but they have determination for change".
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
"A 22 year old could approach me and, if they know their market, and have determination and hunger, even if they don't initially know exactly what to do, I can tell they'll get it done," he says.
News & Media
But she did have determination and a dream.
News & Media
Have determination.
Wiki
Have determination about what you are doing.
Wiki
Be steadfast and have determination with this.
Wiki
Luxy users are successful – they have passion, determination and they look good.
News & Media
Ideal audience: hyperanalytical gamers who think they have the determination and intellect to thrive in a cold, harsh science-fiction universe.
News & Media
Mr Cameron's team believe they have the determination to hold steady where Mr Hague wobbled, and point out that Labour looks less invincible four years on.
News & Media
Mr. Carter has set an impressively high standard for what former occupants of the world's most powerful office can do if they have the determination and energy to continue in public service.
News & Media
They have the determination not just to create a product, but to create a business around it and get it to the finish line.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Consider replacing "determination" with synonyms like "resolve", "tenacity", or "grit" for variety and to tailor the tone to your audience.
Common error
Ensure that the subject "they" correctly agrees with the verb "have". Avoid using "has" with the plural pronoun "they"; the correct form is always "they have determination".
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "they have determination" functions as a statement attributing a specific quality—determination—to a group of people. It is a straightforward way to describe their character or approach, as shown in the Ludwig examples.
Frequent in
News & Media
69%
Wiki
12%
Formal & Business
9%
Less common in
Science
7%
Academia
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "they have determination" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a group's strong will and resolve. Analysis of Ludwig examples reveals its prevalence across various contexts, including news media, formal business settings, and general discourse. While synonyms like "resolve" or "tenacity" might be suitable for more formal writing, "they have determination" remains a versatile and widely understood way to emphasize a group's commitment to achieving their goals. According to Ludwig, it is a correct and usable expression in written English.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
they possess resolve
This alternative uses a more formal term, 'resolve', to describe their firm decision or determination.
they are resolute
This alternative focuses on the unwavering quality of their determination, emphasizing firmness of purpose.
they exhibit tenacity
This alternative focuses on their persistence and ability to overcome obstacles, showcasing their determination.
they show perseverance
This alternative highlights their continued effort despite difficulties, reflecting their underlying determination.
they have grit
This alternative uses the word "grit" as an informal way to describe courage and resolve, or strength of character.
they are committed
This alternative highlights their dedication and allegiance to a cause or goal, which implies determination.
they are driven
This alternative emphasizes the internal motivation and energy that fuels their determination.
they are purposeful
This alternative emphasizes that their actions are intentional and driven by a clear objective, implying determination.
they are single-minded
This alternative conveys a strong focus and unwavering dedication, indicating a high level of determination.
they don't give up
This alternative focuses on their unwillingness to quit, showcasing their determination in the face of adversity.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "they have determination" to sound more formal?
You can use more formal alternatives such as "they possess resolve", "they exhibit tenacity", or "they demonstrate a strong will". These options elevate the tone and convey a similar meaning with greater sophistication.
What does it mean when someone says "they have determination"?
It means that the people being referred to possess a strong will, resolve, and commitment to achieving their goals, even in the face of challenges or obstacles.
Which is a better phrase to use, "they have determination" or "they are determined"?
Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "they are determined" emphasizes a state of being, while "they have determination" highlights the quality they possess. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.
What are some informal ways to say "they have determination"?
Informal alternatives include "they have grit", "they don't give up", or "they are really driven". These phrases use simpler language to express the same core idea.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested