Determination: meaning, definitions and examples

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determination

[dɪˌtəːmɪˈneɪʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

mental strength

The process of establishing something exactly by calculation or research. It can also refer to a firmness of purpose or resoluteness. Determination can be seen as a quality that makes someone continue trying to do something, even if it is difficult.

Synonyms

perseverance, resolve, tenacity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
determination	General steadfastness in achieving a goal. Used when discussing someone's strong will to accomplish something despite difficulties. She showed great determination to finish the marathon. His determination in studying led to his academic success.
resolve	Firm decision and commitment to a course of action. Often used in more formal contexts. He made a resolve to improve his work habits. After much thought, she resolved to start her own business.
perseverance	Continuous effort and persistence over a long period of time, especially in the face of obstacles. Her perseverance through years of training finally paid off. Their perseverance in the project despite setbacks was admirable.
tenacity	Toughness and a relentless hold on an objective or task, irrespective of challenges. Can sometimes imply stubbornness. The tenacity of the investigative journalist was key to uncovering the truth. Her tenacity in negotiations won her a great deal.

Examples of usage

Her determination to succeed in her career is admirable.
Despite facing many obstacles, his determination never wavered.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

decision

The act of deciding definitely and firmly. It can also refer to the result of such an act of decision-making.

Synonyms

conclusion, decision, judgment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
determination	This word is used to describe a person's resolve or firmness in pursuing a goal or overcoming obstacles. Her determination to succeed was evident in the countless hours she spent studying
decision	This word is used when someone makes a choice or comes to a conclusion after considering various options. He made the decision to move to a new city for a better job opportunity
conclusion	This word is used when talking about the end or final part of something, such as an argument, a process, or a piece of writing. In the conclusion of the book, the author ties all the loose ends together
judgment	This word is used to describe the ability to make considered decisions or come to sensible conclusions; it often has a legal connotation or can imply a critical assessment. The judge's judgment was seen as fair and just by both parties

Examples of usage

After much consideration, she made the determination to move to a new city.
The board of directors reached a determination regarding the company's future.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

biology

The process of establishing the exact nature of an organism or object.

Synonyms

classification, identification, recognition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
determination	It can also mean finding the exact details or value of something, often through analysis or calculation. The determination of the chemical composition was essential for the experiment. We need a precise determination of the costs involved.
identification	Used when establishing the identity of a person or thing, often through analysis, recognition, or documentation. The identification of the suspect was confirmed through fingerprints. Proper identification is required to gain access to the secure area.
classification	This is used when organizing or arranging items into categories based on shared characteristics. The biologist made a classification of various plant species found in the region. In order to improve efficiency, the files were sorted into a classification system.
recognition	This word is used when acknowledging or perceiving someone or something, often involving the realization of its importance or the act of familiar acknowledgment. Her years of hard work culminated in the recognition of her achievements. Facial recognition technology is now widely used in security systems.

Examples of usage

The determination of the species of the bird was a complex task for the researchers.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'determinatio', which means 'a setting of limits' or 'making a decision'.
It has been used in English since the 14th century, originally referring to the act of settling something definitively.

Psychology

Studies show that having determination can improve overall success in various life areas, like education and career.
It's often linked with 'grit', a trait involving perseverance and passion for long-term goals.

Literature

Literature often portrays protagonists with strong determination, overcoming obstacles, such as in 'The Little Engine That Could'.
Classic novels like 'Jane Eyre' feature characters whose determination shapes their fates.

Sports

Athletes often emphasize determination as key for success, pushing physical and mental limits to achieve their goals.
In competitions, determination can lead to inspiring comebacks and record-breaking performances.

Pop Culture

Many motivational quotes in movies and books stress that determination is essential for achieving dreams, popularizing the idea of a 'never give up' attitude.
Characters in films like 'Rocky' showcase determination as they train hard to overcome challenges and reach their goals.

Translations

Translations of the word "determination" in other languages:

🇵🇹 determinação

🇮🇳 संकल्प

🇩🇪 Entschlossenheit

🇮🇩 penentuan

🇺🇦 рішучість

🇵🇱 determinacja

🇯🇵 決意 (けつい)

🇫🇷 détermination

🇪🇸 determinación

🇹🇷 kararlılık

🇰🇷 결심 (결단력)

🇸🇦 تصميم

🇨🇿 odhodlání

🇸🇰 odhodlanie

🇨🇳 决心 (juéxīn)

🇸🇮 odločnost

🇮🇸 ákvörðun

🇰🇿 шешім

🇬🇪 გადაწყვეტილება

🇦🇿 qərar

🇲🇽 determinación

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,287, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

...
1284 chemical
1285 evening
1286 hospital
1287 determination
1288 accounts
1289 combination
1290 jurisdiction
...