# determination

/dɪˌtɝməˈneɪʃən/ (US) · /dɪtˌɜːmɪnˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/determination
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. persistence and willpower

noun · CEFR B2

the quality of mind that makes you continue trying to do something even when it is very difficult.

For teachers: the quality of being resolute or firm in purpose; the mental fortitude required to achieve a goal despite obstacles.

- It took great determination to finish the marathon in such heavy rain.
- Her determination to succeed in the competitive world of classical music was evident in her rigorous eight-hour daily practice schedule.

### 2. official decision

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

an official decision made by a court or a person in authority.

For teachers: the formal act of settling or terminating a controversy by a judicial or authoritative decision.

- The committee will make a final determination on the case next week.
- The court's determination that the contract was invalid effectively ended the three-year legal battle between the two corporations.

Usage: Often followed by the preposition 'of' or 'that'.

### 3. calculating or finding out

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Technical

the process of calculating, measuring, or discovering something exactly.

For teachers: the act of establishing or identifying something through observation, calculation, or scientific research.

- The determination of the exact age of the fossil took several months.
- Accurate determination of the chemical composition of the soil is essential before any construction can begin on the site.

## Examples

- Her determination helped her finish the race.
- It took years of hard work and quiet determination for him to finally earn his medical degree.
- The success of the project was attributed less to the team's initial resources and more to their collective determination to overcome every technical hurdle they encountered.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.