Word
deterministic
Phoneticsde·ter·min·is·tic, stress on the fourth syllable
US/dɪˌtɝməˈnɪstɪk/
UK/dɪtˌɜːmɪnˈɪstɪk/
Definition
adj. describing a system where the future is completely decided by the past. If you know all the starting conditions, you can predict exactly what will happen next.
adj. relating to a system in which the future state is entirely determined by the initial conditions and the laws of nature. Often used in contrast to probabilistic or stochastic systems.
Examples
“The computer program is deterministic, so it always gives the same result.”
“In a deterministic model, every input leads to exactly one output, making it easier to debug than a random process.”
“The philosopher argued that a deterministic universe leaves no room for free will, as every human action is the inevitable result of prior physical states.”
Examples
simple
“The computer program is deterministic, so it always gives the same result.”
contextual
“In a deterministic model, every input leads to exactly one output, making it easier to debug than a random process.”
complex
“The philosopher argued that a deterministic universe leaves no room for free will, as every human action is the inevitable result of prior physical states.”
Real-World Examples
“This produces a key principle: genes influence traits, but the relationship between genes and traits is usually conditional rather than deterministic.” “The idea of AI as software – deterministic, fact-retrieving – causes people to misinterpret the outputs they provide.” “Some biologists argue that evolution is a deterministic process, that similar environments will tend to produce similar outcomes.” “We further explore whether LLMs could simulate the deterministic algorithm behind a PRNG.” Etymology
From determinist + -ic.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Domains
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/deterministic