Determine

/dɪˈtɜː(ɹ).mɪn/ · verb

Meaning

To set the boundaries or limits of..

Definitions by Sense

1. To set the boundaries or limits of.
2. To ascertain definitely; to figure out, find out, or conclude by analyzing, calculating, or investigating.
3. To fix the form or character of; to shape; to prescribe imperatively; to regulate; to settle.
4. To fix the course of; to impel and direct; with a remoter object preceded by to.
5. To bring to a conclusion, as a question or controversy; to settle authoritative or judicial sentence; to decide.
6. To resolve (to do something); to establish a fixed intention; to cause (something) to come to a conclusion or decision; to lead.
7. (logic) To define or limit by adding a differentia.
8. (transitive or intransitive, law, otherwise obsolete) To bring to an end, finish; to come to an end, stop, end.

Example Sentences

[God] hath determined the times before appointed.

The knowledge of men hitherto hath been determined by the view or sight.

Whether modern, industrial man is less or more warlike than his hunter-gatherer ancestors is impossible to determine. The machine gun is so much more lethal than the bow and arrow that comparisons are meaningless.

The character of the soul is determined by the character of its God.

something divinely beautiful […] that at some time or other might influence or even determine her course of life

These dramas may appear purely internal but they are perhaps economically determined … when people think they are being so subtly inventive or creative they merely reflect society's general need for economic growth.

The news of his father's illness determined him to depart immediately.

The court has determined the cause.

Synonyms for determine

Antonyms for determine

Related Words

Word Forms

• determines
• determining
• determined
• determin

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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