B1verb1K

Determine

UK /["/dɪˈtɜːmɪn/","/dɪˈtɜːmɪnz/","/dɪˈtɜːmɪnd/","/dɪˈtɜːmɪnɪŋ/"]/US /["/dɪˈtɜːrmɪn/","/dɪˈtɜːrmɪnz/","/dɪˈtɜːrmɪnd/","/dɪˈtɜːrmɪnɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to discover the facts about something; to calculate something exactly

In simple words: To find out or decide something.

Examples

  • It is essential to determine the main cause of the problem.
  • You need to determine how much time you can spend on this project.
  • We must determine the best course of action before proceeding.
  • The weather can determine whether we will go on the trip or not.
  • Scientists often determine the results through experimentation.

Usage notes

Use 'determine' when making a decision based on information or evidence. It's appropriate in both written and spoken context but can sound formal in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

determine + object

Memory hint

Think of 'determine' as 'D-ecide T-hings E-xactly'.

Collocations

  • exactly
  • precisely
  • reliably
  • try to
  • be used to
  • help to
  • biologically
  • culturally
  • genetically

Synonyms

  • establish

Antonyms

  • confuse
  • neglect
  • ignore

Common mistakes

  • Using 'determine' in the wrong tense.
  • Confused with 'decide' or 'discover'.
  • Incorrectly using as a standalone without an object.