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Determine: meaning, definitions and examples

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determine

 

[dɪˈtəːmɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

mathematics

To ascertain or establish exactly, typically as a result of research or calculation.

Synonyms

ascertain, ascertain, establish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
determine

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.
ascertain

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.
establish

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.

Examples of usage

  • They were able to determine the exact value of the variable.
  • The scientists determined the cause of the phenomenon through experimentation.
Context #2 | Verb

decide

To decide definitely and firmly.

Synonyms

conclude, decide, resolve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
determine

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
decide

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
resolve

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
conclude

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

Examples of usage

  • After much deliberation, he determined to pursue a career in medicine.
  • She determined that it was time to make a change in her life.
Context #3 | Verb

cause

To establish or ascertain the existence, presence, or fact of.

Synonyms

ascertain, confirm, establish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
determine

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
establish

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
ascertain

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
confirm

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

Examples of usage

  • The investigation determined that foul play was involved.
  • The tests will help determine the cause of the illness.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • Originates from the Latin word 'determinare,' meaning 'to set boundaries or limit.'
  • The prefix 'de-' conveys the idea of removing or reversing, while 'terminus' means 'end' or 'boundary.'
  • The word has evolved through Old French before settling into English in the late 14th century.

Science

  • In mathematics, determining a solution often involves finding a precise value or answer to an equation.
  • In biology, determining characteristics can refer to understanding genetics and how traits are passed down.
  • In physics, to determine a property means to measure it precisely and understand how it behaves under specific conditions.

Psychology

  • Decision-making psychology examines how individuals determine choices based on preferences and risks.
  • Cognitive biases can affect how we determine outcomes or make decisions, often leading us to illogical conclusions.
  • Determinism in psychology suggests that behavior is determined by factors such as environment and biology rather than free will.

Pop Culture

  • The term is often used in movie plots where characters must determine their destiny based on choices.
  • In many competitive games, players must determine strategies to win against opponents.
  • The character of Sherlock Holmes is a classic example of someone who determines outcomes through keen observation.

Literature

  • In many stories, protagonists face dilemmas that push them to determine their path or identity.
  • Famous quotes often revolve around the theme of determining fate, like Shakespeare's works where characters confront their destinies.
  • In poetry, the word can symbolize both the struggle of choice and the knowledge gained through experiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "determine" in other languages:

🇵🇹 determinar

🇮🇳 निर्धारित करना

🇩🇪 bestimmen

🇮🇩 menentukan

🇺🇦 визначати

🇵🇱 określić

🇯🇵 決定する (kettei suru)

🇫🇷 déterminer

🇪🇸 determinar

🇹🇷 belirlemek

🇰🇷 결정하다 (gyeoljeonghada)

🇸🇦 يحدد (yuhadid)

🇨🇿 určit

🇸🇰 určiť

🇨🇳 确定 (quèdìng)

🇸🇮 določiti

🇮🇸 ákveða

🇰🇿 анықтау

🇬🇪 განსაზღვრა (gansazghvra)

🇦🇿 müəyyənləşdirmək

🇲🇽 determinar

Word Frequency Rank

At #734 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.