to better determine

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'to better determine' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to suggest a better method or approach to gain knowledge or understanding about something. For example, "We decided to collect more data to better determine the overall trends."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That allowed the scientists to better determine the size and position of the radio source.

The New York Times

We do recommend that additional study be done to better determine the risks and benefits for the entire population.

Nature

Indeed such gradients-on-a-chip might bring unprecedented information to better determine permissible exposure levels.

Toxicology in Vitro

We were collecting sediment cores to better determine the timing of post-glacial floods drained by the Columbia River.

Harvard University

Additionally, phones will include more microphones, and temperature and humidity sensors to better determine their location and surroundings.

The New York Times

Genentech also said it was working on tests to better determine which patients should get a drug in the first place.

The New York Times

We decided to add a Williams-specific essay to the common application to better determine who among our applicants would benefit most from a Williams education.

The New York Times

According to Mr. Fleuranges, the footage could be used to better determine the facts in incidents that lead to such lawsuits.

The New York Times

Most companies are keen to lock you in because this will maximise income, but they also need to lock you in to better determine your needs.

The Guardian

A primary program goal was to allow nurse leaders to better determine the success of potential employees through sustained interaction.

Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing

The agency had urged Sarepta, which is based in Cambridge, Mass., to do a larger study with a placebo control to better determine whether the drug worked.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to better determine", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being determined and why improved determination is important. This adds clarity and strengthens the purpose of the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "to better determine" in overly broad or vague contexts where the specific outcome or benefit of improved determination is unclear. Be specific about what knowledge or action will result from the determination.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to better determine" functions as an infinitive of purpose, indicating the reason or goal behind an action. It modifies a verb and specifies the intended outcome of achieving a more accurate or improved assessment. Ludwig AI validates this usage pattern.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

38%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to better determine" is a versatile phrase used to express the purpose of improving an assessment or understanding of something. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in scientific, news, and academic writing. When using this phrase, clarity is key: ensure that the object of determination is clearly stated and the benefit of improved determination is evident. While it's acceptable in formal contexts, avoiding overuse and vagueness will ensure your writing remains precise and impactful. Consider related phrases like "to ascertain more effectively" or "to establish with greater accuracy" for nuanced variations. With its frequent use and established grammatical correctness, "to better determine" is a valuable tool for expressing the intent to refine understanding in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to ascertain more effectively

Emphasizes a more efficient method of finding something out.

to establish with greater accuracy

Focuses on achieving a more precise confirmation.

to discern more precisely

Highlights an improved ability to distinguish or recognize.

to more accurately assess

Stresses improving the correctness of an evaluation.

to more effectively evaluate

Highlights a method to improve the way something is being assessed or judged.

to refine the identification of

Focuses on improving the process of recognizing or naming.

to enhance understanding in order to

Shifts focus to increasing comprehension as a means to an end.

to gain clearer insights into

Focuses on achieving a more lucid understanding.

to improve the detection of

Focuses on improving the ability to find or notice something.

in order to refine understanding of

Similar to enhancing understanding but emphasizes refinement.

FAQs

How can I use "to better determine" in a sentence?

Use "to better determine" to introduce the purpose of an action aimed at improving understanding or assessment. For example, "We need more data "to better determine" the effectiveness of the new policy."

What are some alternatives to "to better determine"?

Alternatives include phrases like "to ascertain more effectively", "to establish with greater accuracy", or "to discern more precisely", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to include "better" in the phrase "to determine"?

While "to determine" is often sufficient, adding "better" emphasizes an improvement in the process or outcome of determination. Use ""to better determine"" when you want to highlight the enhanced quality of the determination.

What's the difference between "to determine" and "to better determine"?

"To determine" implies a simple act of finding something out, while ""to better determine"" suggests an active effort to improve the accuracy, efficiency, or depth of that process. The latter indicates a higher standard or more refined method.