Determine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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determine
[dɪˈtəːmɪn ]
Definitions
mathematics
To ascertain or establish exactly, typically as a result of research or calculation.
Synonyms
ascertain, ascertain, establish.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| determine |
Used when deciding something based on evidence and facts, often in a clear, resolute manner.
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| ascertain |
Used when finding out something with certainty, often through investigation or experiments.
|
| establish |
Used when proving something to be true or valid; also when setting up an organization, system, or set of rules.
|
Examples of usage
- They were able to determine the exact value of the variable.
- The scientists determined the cause of the phenomenon through experimentation.
decide
To decide definitely and firmly.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| determine |
Used when making a firm or fixed decision, often linked to something that has a predestined nature or result.
|
| decide |
Used when making a choice or coming to a resolution, often among multiple options or actions.
|
| resolve |
Used when settling or finding a solution to a problem, conflict, or contentious matter.
|
| conclude |
Used when arriving at a final decision or judgement based on evidence or reasoning, often at the end of a discussion or analysis.
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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.
cause
To establish or ascertain the existence, presence, or fact of.
Synonyms
ascertain, confirm, establish.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
|
| establish |
Typically employed in formal settings to verify facts, set up organizations, or lay down regulations in a definitive manner.
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| ascertain |
Best utilized in more formal or scientific contexts where careful examination or inquiry is required to find the truth or details.
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| confirm |
Used when verifying something to ensure it is true or correct, often after initial information or a decision has been made.
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Examples of usage
- The investigation determined that foul play was involved.
- The tests will help determine the cause of the illness.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'determine'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'determine' originated from the Latin word 'determinare', which means 'to limit' or 'to fix'. Over time, its meaning evolved to include the act of deciding or establishing something. The word has been in use in the English language since the late 14th century.
See also: determinability, determinable, determination, determined, determinedly, determiner, determinist, indeterminacy, indeterminate, indeterminateness, predetermine, predetermined, undetermined.