Determination
/dɪˌtɜːrmɪˈneɪʃən/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe quality of being firm in one's purpose; resoluteness.
/dɪˌtɜːrmɪˈneɪʃən/
Firmness of purpose; resolve
Despite facing numerous obstacles, her determination never wavered.
💡 Simply: It's when you're really, really set on doing something, and you won't give up, even when it's hard, like when you're building the best LEGO castle ever!
👶 For kids: Trying super, super hard to do something and not giving up.
More Examples
His determination to finish the marathon was inspiring.
The team’s determination led them to victory.
How It's Used
"Her determination to succeed was evident in her hard work."
"The athlete showed great determination despite the injury."
"The company’s determination to innovate led to significant market growth."
The act of determining or calculating something precisely.
/dɪˌtɜːrmɪˈneɪʃən/
The process of establishing something exactly
The experiment's results led to the determination of a new scientific theory.
💡 Simply: It's like figuring something out with all the details, like when you're trying to find the best place to hide your treasure, and you write down the exact measurements.
👶 For kids: Figuring something out for sure.
More Examples
The lawyer requested a determination of the exact terms of the contract.
The survey required the determination of the population's preferences.
How It's Used
"The determination of the substance's chemical composition required precise analysis."
"The court’s determination of guilt was based on the evidence presented."
"The determination of the roots of the equation was a complex process."
Idioms & expressions
Single-minded determination
Focused and unwavering resolve.
"Her single-minded determination to become a doctor drove her through years of study."
Show determination
Displaying resolve and firmness of purpose.
"The athlete showed determination despite facing a significant injury."
Inner determination
Resolve originating from within.
"Her inner determination propelled her through the challenging project."
From the Latin *determinatio*, meaning 'a setting of bounds, a limiting, definition'. It evolved through Middle English and Old French, acquiring its current sense of firmness and resolve.
Used since the 14th century to denote a firm resolution, commitment, and resolution. It evolved from earlier legal and theological contexts.
Memory tip
Think of someone being 'determined' to win a race; they push through all obstacles.