Words / B1

di-TURM-in/dɪˈtɜːmɪn/

Determine means officially decide, or find out the facts. Tests determine the cause; the court will determine the result. Decide is more everyday and personal. Find out is informal for discovering information. Determined is a different (and very common) adjective: she is determined to pass. Determination is the noun for that strong will.

Meaning

To officially decide, or to find out the facts.

Examples

• “Tests will determine the cause of the problem.”
• “The final score will determine the winner.”
• “We need to determine who is responsible.”

Good to know

determine the cause / the result. Adjective determined = strong will, not the same as the verb.

Near in meaning

decide, establish

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