Determine: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when deciding something based on evidence and facts, often in a clear, resolute manner.

• The jury will determine the verdict.
• We need to determine the best course of action.

Used when finding out something with certainty, often through investigation or experiments.

• The detective worked hard to ascertain the suspect's whereabouts.
• Scientists are trying to ascertain the cause of the disease.

Used when proving something to be true or valid; also when setting up an organization, system, or set of rules.

• The evidence helped to establish his innocence.
• She worked hard to establish the new company.

Used when making a firm or fixed decision, often linked to something that has a predestined nature or result.

• His role in the company was already determined by his prior experience
• The outcome of the election will be determined by voter turnout

Used when making a choice or coming to a resolution, often among multiple options or actions.

• She decided to go to college in the fall
• We have to decide which project to prioritize

Used when settling or finding a solution to a problem, conflict, or contentious matter.

• They resolved their differences and became friends again
• We need to resolve this issue before it gets worse

Used when arriving at a final decision or judgement based on evidence or reasoning, often at the end of a discussion or analysis.

• After examining all the evidence, the jury concluded that the defendant was guilty
• The study concluded that exercise improves mental health

Appropriate for situations where you need to find out something or make a decision. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

• We need to determine the cause of the problem
• She will determine her final decision by tomorrow

Typically employed in formal settings to verify facts, set up organizations, or lay down regulations in a definitive manner.

• The scientist worked to establish a new theory
• They plan to establish a new policy next month

Best utilized in more formal or scientific contexts where careful examination or inquiry is required to find the truth or details.

• The detective tried to ascertain the identity of the culprit
• The study aims to ascertain the effects of the new drug

Used when verifying something to ensure it is true or correct, often after initial information or a decision has been made.

• Can you confirm the booking for dinner tonight? The test results will confirm if she has the flu