ENGLISH
REFERENCE

determine

v.
US //dəˈtɝmən// UK //dɪtˈɜːmɪn// de·ter·mine
  1. 1 to find out facts (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to discover the facts or the truth about something by looking at evidence.

    to ascertain or establish exactly, typically as a result of investigation or calculation.

    Example

    The doctors are trying to determine the cause of his illness.

    Example

    Forensic experts were called in to determine the exact point of origin for the fire, examining the charred remains for chemical traces.

    Usage

    Often takes a 'that' clause or a 'wh-' clause as its object.
  2. 2 to influence or decide (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to be the main reason that something happens in a particular way.

    to be the decisive factor in an outcome; to regulate or shape the character of something.

    Example

    Your hard work will determine your success in the final exam.

    Example

    The level of consumer demand will ultimately determine the price at which the new software is launched in the international market.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the passive voice to describe causal relationships.
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  1. 3 to make a firm decision (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Law

    to decide something officially or to make a very firm plan.

    to settle a dispute or question authoritatively; to resolve to take a specific course of action.

    Example

    The committee will determine the winner of the competition tomorrow.

    Example

    The court must determine whether the defendant acted with intent or was merely negligent in his duties.

    Usage

    When meaning 'to resolve', it is often followed by a 'to' infinitive.
  2. 4 to end a legal agreement (v.)
    C2 Proficiency Formal Technical Law

    to bring a legal agreement or a contract to an end.

    to bring to a conclusion or end, specifically regarding a legal interest, estate, or contract.

    Example

    The lease will determine automatically if the rent is not paid for three months.

    Example

    The agreement shall determine upon the death of either party or upon a written notice of thirty days.

    Usage

    Primarily used in property law and formal contracts.
Origin

From Middle English determinen, from Old French determiner, French déterminer, from Latin determināre (“to bound, limit, prescribe, fix, determine”), from de + termināre (“to limit”), from terminus (“bound, limit, end”).

Word family

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