What is determine? Pronunciation and usage in English

determine means . Learn how to pronounce and use determine through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of determine

determineverb

/dɪˈtəːmɪn/
Definition & pronunciation of determine

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "determine" in English. It's a tricky one for some! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "de-": This is pronounced like "dee" – as in "deep."
  • "term-": This is pronounced like "tärm" (rhymes with "farm"). This is the tricky part! The "r" is slightly rolled, but not a super forceful roll. Think of a gentle one.
  • "ine": This is pronounced like "ih-neh" – as in "in line."

2. Putting it Together:

So, the whole word is pronounced: dee-tärm-ih-neh

Here's a helpful breakdown with emphasis:

  • dee (as in "deep") - emphasize this first syllable
  • tärm (rhymes with "farm") – keep this syllable relatively short and crisp. Don't over-emphasize the “r.”
  • ih-neh (as in "in line") – a quick, connected sound.

Resources for Hearing It:

  • Google Search: Type "how to pronounce determine" into Google and click the audio icon.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/determine/ - A website with pronunciations from native speakers.
  • YouTube: Search "how to pronounce determine" on YouTube and you'll find many videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

Tips for rolling the 'r':

  • Don't overdo it: A slight, gentle roll is enough. A huge, dramatic roll sounds unnatural.
  • Practice: Saying "tärm" repeatedly will help your tongue get used to the articulation.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using "determine"?

Usage and examples with the word determine in English

Let's break down how to use the word "determine" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances. Here's a breakdown of its meanings, usage, and examples:

1. As a Verb – To Find Out or Decide:

  • Core Meaning: This is the most common usage. “Determine” means to find out something, to figure something out, or to make a firm decision. It implies a process of investigation or deliberation.

    • Example 1 (Finding out): "The scientists are working to determine the cause of the disease." (They're investigating to find out the cause.)
    • Example 2 (Deciding): "The committee will determine the winner of the competition." (They’re making a firm decision about who won.)
    • Example 3 (Figuring out): "I need to determine if I have enough time to finish the project." (I’m assessing whether it’s possible.)

2. As a Verb – To Fix or Establish Something (Often a Price or Amount):

  • More Formal: "Determine" can also mean to set or establish something, especially a price, rate, or amount. It’s often used in a business or official context.

    • Example 1: "The company will determine the price of the new product based on market research." (They’re setting the price.)
    • Example 2: "The judge will determine the length of the sentence." (They’re setting the punishment.)
    • Example 3: "The government needs to determine the interest rates." (They're setting the interest rate)

3. Synonyms:

It's helpful to know some words that can often be substituted for "determine," depending on the specific context:

  • Find out: (When discovering information)
  • Decide: (When making a choice)
  • Establish: (When setting something formally)
  • Ascertain: (More formal than “find out”)
  • Calculate: (When working out a number or amount)
  • Fix: (When setting a price or rate)

Key Differences & Nuances:

  • "Find out" vs. "Determine": “Find out” often suggests a less formal, exploratory process. “Determine” implies a more deliberate and often official process of finding out or deciding.
  • "Establish" vs. "Determine": “Establish” usually refers to creating something that will exist permanently. “Determine” is often about a specific action or decision.

Common Phrases & Constructions:

  • Determine what...: "Determine what steps to take."
  • Determine whether...: "Determine whether the evidence is sufficient."
  • Determine if...: “Determine if we can meet the deadline.” (slightly more informal than “whether”)
  • Determine to do something: “He determined to lose weight.” (implies a firm intention)

Resources for More Examples:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you using "determine" in? (e.g., academic writing, everyday conversation, a specific topic like science or business?)

Synonyms for the word determine

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