The spelling of the word "determine" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /dɪˈtɜːmɪn/. This word consists of two syllables, with the stress on the second syllable. The first sound is a voiced dental consonant /d/, followed by an unstressed short vowel sound /ɪ/. The second syllable starts with a voiceless alveolar consonant /t/, then the vowel sound is prolonged with the usage of the letter 'e' /ɜː/ and the syllable ends with a nasal consonant /m/ and an unstressed syllable-final schwa /ən/.
Determine is a verb that refers to the act of making a decision or reaching a conclusion after careful consideration or investigation. It also involves the ability to ascertain or establish something definitively, whether through observation, research, or logical reasoning.
When used in the context of decision-making, determine implies a deliberate process of weighing options, evaluating factors, and ultimately settling on a specific course of action. It involves exercising judgment and arriving at a resolution based on relevant information and analysis. For example, when facing a difficult situation, one may determine the most appropriate response by considering all relevant factors and weighing the potential outcomes.
In the context of discovery or investigation, determine involves finding the solution or answer to a problem or query. It encompasses activities such as researching, analyzing, and drawing conclusions based on the available evidence. Scientists, for instance, determine the nature of a phenomenon through careful experimentation and analysis of data.
Determining something also implies establishing it as a fact or truth, providing a reliable and definite conclusion that resolves uncertainties or doubts. This often involves reviewing and interpreting evidence, conducting experiments, or even consulting experts in the field. In this sense, determination is about finding the objective reality and settling disputes or questions.
Overall, determine is a versatile verb that encompasses the processes of decision-making, problem-solving, and establishing truths by considering evidence, evaluating options, and reaching definitive conclusions.
Determinable.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "determine" originated from the Latin word "determinare", which is a combination of "de-" meaning "completely" or "down to" and "terminare" meaning "to limit" or "to set boundaries". In Latin, "determinare" referred to establishing the limits or bounds of something. Over time, the word "determine" evolved in English to mean to settle, decide, or conclude something, often by establishing or finding a specific answer or result.