Used and loved by millions
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 shall determine
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "they shall determine" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in formal or legal contexts to indicate that a group or entity has the authority to make decisions or judgments. Example: "The committee has been established to oversee the project, and they shall determine the best course of action moving forward."
✓ Grammatically correct
Academia
News & Media
Wiki
Alternative expressions(5)
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
22. Upon notice of loss being given in the manner provided by the preceding section, the directors shall proceed, as soon as may be, to ascertain and determine if any loss has occurred for which the company is liable; and if they shall determine that the company is liable, then they shall also determine the amount of the loss, and shall pay the same within three months after such notice.
Academia
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
Laminated plastic tops are colorful, varied and inexpensive; quartz, limestones and granites superb and your wallet shall determine what they shall be.
Wiki
In this article, we shall determine the rate of growth of the Hankel determinant H q ( n ) for f ( z ) ∈ B ̃ k with 0 < β < 2, as n → ∞.
They are to be present at a hearing, which may be public or private as the Commission shall determine.
Academia
You shall regularly maintain Your Blog and shall determine its content.
News & Media
If no one has a clear majority, then the current Electoral College shall determine the winner.
News & Media
A third category covered "such other charitable activities as the Trustee shall determine".
News & Media
This committee shall determine the format of the identification documenation.
Academia
(a) The ALJ shall determine the admissibility of evidence.
Academia
The Secretary shall determine the appropriate classification of each project.
Academia
(a) The presiding officer shall determine the admissibility of evidence.
Academia
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When writing for a modern audience, consider whether "they will determine" is a more accessible and equally effective alternative.
Common error
Avoid using "they shall determine" in informal writing, as it can sound stilted or archaic. Opt for simpler alternatives like "they will decide" or "they get to choose" in everyday contexts.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.4/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "they shall determine" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a future action of deciding or establishing something. The use of "shall" suggests a degree of obligation, intention, or certainty, especially in formal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms this usage in legal and formal scenarios.
Frequent in
Academia
46%
News & Media
35%
Wiki
19%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Science
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "they shall determine" is a formal expression indicating that a group or entity is responsible for making a future decision. Ludwig AI confirms that it is typically used in legal, academic, and other formal contexts. While grammatically correct, its formality may not be appropriate for all situations, and simpler alternatives like "they will decide" may be preferable in informal writing. When used, it conveys authority and a sense of obligation. Therefore, understanding the context and intended audience is crucial for effective communication.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
they will decide
Replaces 'shall' with 'will', making it less formal but retaining the core meaning of future decision-making.
they are to decide
Emphasizes obligation or instruction to decide, instead of prediction or determination.
they will ascertain
Replaces 'determine' with 'ascertain', indicating a more investigative or fact-finding approach.
it is their decision
Shifts the focus to the decision itself, highlighting ownership or responsibility.
they are empowered to decide
Highlights the authorization or empowerment to make a decision.
they get to choose
Informal phrasing that emphasizes the power of choice.
they are responsible for deciding
Highlights the accountability associated with making the decision.
they have the final say
Emphasizes the ultimate authority in making a decision.
the decision rests with them
Focuses on where the responsibility for the decision lies.
they will adjudicate
Suggests a formal or legal judgment.
FAQs
How can I use "they shall determine" in a sentence?
Use "they shall determine" when indicating that a group or entity has the authority or obligation to make a decision, particularly in formal or legal contexts. For example, "The board of directors shall determine the company's future strategy."
What are some alternatives to "they shall determine"?
Alternatives include "they will decide", "they are to decide", or "they get to choose", depending on the level of formality and emphasis you want to convey.
Is "they shall determine" formal or informal?
"They shall determine" is considered a formal phrase, often used in legal documents, contracts, or other official contexts. In everyday conversation or less formal writing, alternatives like "they will decide" might be more appropriate.
What's the difference between "they shall determine" and "they will determine"?
"They shall determine" implies a sense of obligation, duty, or predetermination, whereas "they will determine" is a simple statement of future action. "Shall" in this context adds a layer of formality and a hint of inevitability or obligation.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.4/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested