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A2 verb #1,500 am häufigsten 13 Min. Lesezeit

determinar

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At the A1 level, you are just beginning to build your Portuguese vocabulary. The word 'determinar' might seem a bit advanced, but you can understand it in its simplest form: finding an answer or making a basic decision. Think of it as a more formal way to say 'to find' or 'to see.' At this stage, you will mostly see it in simple instructions. For example, in a Portuguese class, a teacher might say, 'Determine a cor do objeto' (Determine the color of the object). This is a simple task of identification. You don't need to worry about the complex reflexive uses or the subjunctive mood yet. Just focus on the idea that 'determinar' means to look at something and give it a name or a value. It is like a puzzle where you find the missing piece. You might also see it in very simple sentences about rules, like 'O pai determina a hora de dormir' (The father determines the bedtime). Here, it just means the father sets the time. Even at A1, knowing this word helps you understand that Portuguese has different levels of formality. You use 'escolher' for choosing a toy, but 'determinar' is for when someone in charge makes a rule. Try to recognize the word when you see it in books or hear it in simple videos. It looks very much like the English word 'determine,' which makes it easy to remember. Just remember that in Portuguese, it ends in '-ar,' so it follows the most common verb pattern. You can say 'Eu determino' (I determine) or 'Você determina' (You determine). Keep it simple and use it when you want to sound a little more serious about finding an answer or setting a simple rule.

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As an A2 learner, you are starting to use Portuguese in more practical, everyday situations. 'Determinar' becomes useful when you need to talk about plans, causes, and simple rules. You are now moving beyond simple identification and starting to use the word to describe how one thing affects another. For example, you can say, 'O tempo determina se vamos ao parque' (The weather determines if we go to the park). This shows you understand a basic cause-and-effect relationship. You will also encounter 'determinar' in more varied contexts, such as at work or in school. If you are looking at a map, you might 'determinar a distância entre duas cidades' (determine the distance between two cities). This involves a bit more effort than A1 identification; it involves a simple calculation or measurement. You should also start noticing the past participle 'determinado.' You might hear someone say, 'Ele é um homem muito determinado' (He is a very determined man). Here, it is an adjective describing someone who doesn't give up. This is a very common way to use the word in daily life. At the A2 level, you should also be aware that 'determinar' is a regular verb. You can practice conjugating it in the present and the simple past (Pretérito Perfeito). For example, 'Ontem, o chefe determinou as novas tarefas' (Yesterday, the boss determined the new tasks). This helps you talk about things that have already been decided. You are building the foundation to use this word in more complex ways later on. Don't be afraid to use it in your writing to sound more precise. Instead of always using 'falar' or 'dizer,' you can use 'determinar' when someone is giving a clear instruction. It makes your Portuguese sound more mature and organized.

At the B1 level, you are becoming an intermediate speaker, and you can handle more complex sentence structures. This is where you start using 'determinar' with 'que' clauses and the subjunctive mood. For example, 'A lei determina que todos paguem impostos' (The law determines that everyone pay taxes). Notice the use of 'paguem' (subjunctive). This is a key step in reaching B1 fluency. You are no longer just stating facts; you are describing mandates and requirements. You also start to use the reflexive form 'determinar-se a.' You might say, 'Eu me determinei a passar no exame de proficiência' (I determined [myself] to pass the proficiency exam). This expresses a higher level of commitment than just saying 'eu quero' (I want). It shows you have a plan and the willpower to follow through. At B1, you also begin to understand the nuances between 'determinar' and its synonyms like 'definir' or 'estabelecer.' You might use 'determinar' in a scientific or logical context, such as 'O estudo determinou que a dieta é importante para a saúde' (The study determined that diet is important for health). You are able to discuss results and conclusions. Your vocabulary is growing, and you can use 'determinar' to talk about more abstract concepts, like what determines success or happiness. You will hear this word often in news reports about politics or the economy, and you should be able to follow the general meaning. For instance, 'O Banco Central determinou um aumento na taxa de juros' (The Central Bank determined an increase in the interest rate). You are now using the word as a tool for professional and academic communication. Practice using it in your essays to link causes to effects, which is a vital skill for intermediate writing.

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At the B2 level, you are an upper-intermediate learner who can speak with a degree of fluency and spontaneity. You use 'determinar' with precision in various professional and social contexts. You understand that 'determinar' is not just about making a decision, but about the structural factors that dictate an outcome. You can participate in debates and say things like, 'Acredito que o ambiente social determina, em grande parte, as oportunidades de um indivíduo' (I believe that the social environment determines, to a large extent, an individual's opportunities). This shows you can handle complex, abstract topics. You are also comfortable with the passive voice: 'A estratégia foi determinada pela equipe de marketing' (The strategy was determined by the marketing team). This is common in business environments where the focus is on the result rather than the person who made the decision. You also recognize the adjective 'determinado' in its sense of 'a certain' or 'specific.' For example, 'Em um determinado momento da história...' (At a certain moment in history...). This is a sophisticated way to introduce a specific point in time or a specific condition. Your use of the subjunctive with 'determinar' is now automatic and correct. You can also use the word in more technical senses, such as in mathematics or law, without hesitation. You might read a legal contract and understand the phrase 'conforme determinado no artigo anterior' (as determined in the previous article). At B2, you are expected to have a wide range of synonyms at your disposal, so you can choose 'determinar' when you want to emphasize authority, precision, or causality, and choose other words when you want a different nuance. You are moving toward a native-like understanding of how word choice affects the tone of your communication.

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As a C1 learner, you have reached an advanced level of Portuguese. You use 'determinar' with the same nuance and variety as a native speaker. You are sensitive to the subtle differences in register. You know that in a formal speech, 'determinar' carries a weight of finality and institutional power. You might use it in a literary or philosophical analysis: 'O autor busca determinar os limites da consciência humana através de seus personagens' (The author seeks to determine the limits of human consciousness through his characters). You are capable of using the word in highly specialized fields, whether it's law, medicine, or engineering. You understand the historical and etymological roots of the word, which helps you grasp its use in older texts or formal legal documents. You can use the word to express complex causal chains: 'Uma série de eventos fortuitos determinou o desfecho da batalha' (A series of fortuitous events determined the outcome of the battle). You also use the word reflexively in a very sophisticated way to describe personal transformation or intense resolve. Your writing is polished, and you use 'determinar' to create a clear, authoritative voice. You are also aware of the word's role in 'determinismo' (determinism), the philosophical concept that all events are determined by previously existing causes. You can engage in deep intellectual discussions about whether human will is 'determinada' by biology or society. At this level, you don't just know the word; you know the culture and the intellectual history behind it. You can spot when the word is used ironically or metaphorically in literature. Your mastery of 'determinar' is a testament to your deep immersion in the Portuguese language.

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At the C2 level, you have achieved mastery of the Portuguese language. Your use of 'determinar' is flawless and indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. You can use the word in its most obscure and technical senses. In a legal context, you might discuss the 'poder determinante' of a specific clause in a contract. In a scientific paper, you might describe how a specific variable 'determina univocamente' (uniquely determines) the state of a system. You are comfortable with the most formal and archaic uses of the word found in classical Portuguese literature. You can play with the word's meanings, using it in puns or sophisticated metaphors. You understand the nuances of how 'determinar' is used differently in Brazil, Portugal, Angola, and Mozambique. For instance, you might notice subtle differences in the frequency of its reflexive use or the specific prepositions that follow it in different dialects. You can write complex legal, academic, or literary texts where 'determinar' is used to establish a rigorous and precise framework. You are also a master of the word's family, using 'determinismo,' 'determinístico,' 'indeterminação,' and 'predeterminado' with ease. You can explain the philosophical implications of a 'vontade determinada' versus a 'vontade livre.' At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item; it is a precision instrument in your linguistic toolkit. You use it to shape your thoughts and influence your audience with maximum impact. Whether you are delivering a keynote speech, writing a doctoral thesis, or negotiating a high-stakes international agreement, 'determinar' is a word you use with total confidence and stylistic flair.

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determinar in 30 Sekunden

Determinar means to establish, decide, or identify something with precision and authority in various contexts.
It is a regular -ar verb used in scientific, legal, and personal contexts to show resolve or causality.
Commonly followed by a direct object or a 'que' clause requiring the subjunctive mood for commands.
It differs from 'decidir' by being more formal and focusing on factors or definitive establishments.

The Portuguese verb determinar is a versatile and essential word that functions similarly to its English cognate 'to determine,' but it carries a broader range of nuances depending on the context. At its core, it refers to the act of establishing something with precision, making a firm decision, or acting as the cause for a specific outcome. In everyday conversation, you might hear it when someone is trying to find the root cause of a problem or when an authority figure sets a rule. It is a regular verb ending in '-ar,' making it relatively straightforward for learners to conjugate. However, its power lies in its ability to shift from a scientific context—like determining the results of an experiment—to a deeply personal one, such as being determined to achieve a goal.

Scientific and Analytical Usage: In technical fields, 'determinar' is used to describe the process of calculation, identification, or discovery. For example, a doctor might 'determinar a causa da doença' (determine the cause of the illness). Here, it implies a methodical approach to reaching a conclusion based on evidence and logic.
Legal and Authoritative Usage: In legal or formal settings, the word takes on the meaning of 'to decree' or 'to command.' When a judge 'determina que o réu seja solto' (determines that the defendant be released), it is not just a finding of fact but a direct order that must be followed. This usage is common in government documents and official communications.
Personal Resolve: When used reflexively as 'determinar-se,' or in the past participle 'determinado,' it describes a state of mind. A person who is 'determinada' is someone with strong willpower. To 'determinar-se a fazer algo' means to make a firm, unshakable resolution to accomplish a task.

O cientista trabalhou dia e noite para determinar a composição química da nova substância descoberta na Amazônia.

Beyond these specific categories, 'determinar' is often used to discuss causality. In sociology or philosophy, one might discuss how environment or genetics 'determina' human behavior. This implies a relationship where one factor dictates the state or quality of another. It is important to distinguish this from 'decidir' (to decide). While 'decidir' focuses on the choice itself, 'determinar' often focuses on the factors leading to that choice or the precise definition of the outcome. For instance, you 'decide' to go to the beach, but the weather 'determines' whether you will actually enjoy it. This distinction is subtle but crucial for reaching an advanced level of Portuguese fluency.

A nova lei vai determinar as regras para o uso de inteligência artificial no país.

Mathematics and Logic: In a math class, you will frequently hear 'determine o valor de x.' This is a direct instruction to solve for a variable. It suggests that there is a single, correct, and discoverable answer that the student must find through calculation.

Não podemos determinar o futuro, mas podemos nos preparar para ele com dedicação.

Using the verb determinar correctly requires understanding its transitivity and the prepositions that often accompany it. In its most common form, it is a transitive direct verb, meaning it takes an object directly without a preposition. For example, 'O juiz determinou a sentença' (The judge determined the sentence). Here, 'a sentença' is the direct object. This structure is used when the action of determining is applied to a noun or a concept. It is the most frequent way you will encounter the word in news reports, academic papers, and official documents.

Using 'Que' Clauses: When 'determinar' expresses a command or a finding that involves an action, it is followed by the conjunction 'que' and a subordinate clause. In these cases, the verb in the subordinate clause is often in the subjunctive mood if it expresses a wish, command, or necessity. For example: 'A diretoria determinou que todos os funcionários usem crachá' (The board determined that all employees wear badges). Note the use of 'usem' (subjunctive) because it is a mandate.

É difícil determinar quem foi o responsável pelo erro sem uma investigação completa.

Another important aspect is the reflexive use: determinar-se. This is used when the subject is the one making a firm decision for themselves. It is frequently followed by the preposition 'a' and an infinitive verb. For instance, 'Ela se determinou a aprender português em seis meses' (She determined [herself] to learn Portuguese in six months). This conveys a sense of strong personal agency and willpower. It is more formal and intense than simply saying 'ela decidiu' (she decided).

Causality and Influence: In discussions about science or social trends, 'determinar' acts as a synonym for 'to cause' or 'to dictate.' You might say, 'O clima determina o tipo de vegetação de uma região' (The climate determines the type of vegetation in a region). In this context, the subject (clima) is the active force that shapes the object (vegetação).

Os resultados do exame vão determinar se o paciente precisa de cirurgia ou apenas de medicamentos.

Finally, consider the use of 'determinar' in the sense of defining boundaries or limits. In geography or property law, one might 'determinar os limites de um terreno' (determine the boundaries of a piece of land). This involves physical measurement and the establishment of clear markers. This literal sense of 'setting limits' is the root of all its more abstract meanings. Whether you are setting the limits of a property, the limits of a law, or the limits of your own willpower, you are using 'determinar' to create clarity where there was previously ambiguity.

Precisamos determinar o orçamento para o próximo trimestre antes de contratar novos funcionários.

The word determinar is ubiquitous in Portuguese-speaking societies, appearing in various registers from the highly formal to the moderately casual. If you turn on the news in Brazil or Portugal, you will likely hear it within the first ten minutes. Journalists use it to describe government actions: 'O governo determinou novas medidas de segurança' (The government determined new security measures). In this context, it carries the weight of official authority and the implementation of policy. It sounds more decisive and formal than 'escolheu' (chose) or 'fez' (did).

Academic and Educational Settings: In schools and universities, 'determinar' is a keyword in instructions. On an exam, a question might read: 'Determine a área do triângulo' (Determine the area of the triangle). Professors use it when discussing theories: 'Vários fatores determinam o crescimento econômico de um país' (Several factors determine the economic growth of a country). It is the language of analysis and objective discovery.

Na aula de química, aprendemos a determinar o pH de diferentes soluções usando indicadores coloridos.

In the workplace, 'determinar' is used during planning and project management. Managers use it to set deadlines and define scopes. 'Precisamos determinar o escopo do projeto' (We need to determine the scope of the project) is a common phrase in corporate meetings. It implies a collaborative or authoritative effort to bring structure to a task. You will also see it in contracts and Terms of Service agreements, where it defines the conditions under which a service is provided.

Medical and Scientific Discourse: When visiting a doctor, you might hear 'Vamos fazer alguns exames para determinar a causa da sua dor' (We are going to do some tests to determine the cause of your pain). In science, researchers 'determinam' variables, constants, and outcomes. It is the verb of the scientific method, representing the transition from hypothesis to confirmed fact.

O juiz vai determinar o valor da indenização que a empresa deve pagar aos consumidores.

Even in sports, commentators use it: 'O desempenho do goleiro determinou a vitória do time' (The goalkeeper's performance determined the team's victory). Here, it highlights a decisive factor that changed the course of an event. Whether you are reading a technical manual, listening to a legal podcast, or watching a football match, 'determinar' is the word that connects actions to their definitive results.

A polícia ainda está tentando determinar a identidade da pessoa que encontrou o tesouro perdido.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using determinar is confusing it with 'decidir' (to decide) or 'resolver' (to resolve/solve). While they are related, they are not always interchangeable. 'Decidir' is about making a choice between options. 'Determinar' is more about establishing a fact, a rule, or a cause. For example, you 'decide' to eat pizza, but the ingredients 'determine' the flavor. If you say 'Eu determinei comer pizza,' it sounds unnaturally formal, as if you have issued a royal decree to yourself.

Misuse of Prepositions: Another common error involves prepositions. Many learners try to use 'determinar em' or 'determinar sobre,' but 'determinar' is usually a direct transitive verb. You 'determina algo' (determine something). The only time a preposition is commonly used is in the reflexive form 'determinar-se a' (to determine oneself to do something). Using the wrong preposition can make your Portuguese sound clunky and non-native.

Errado: O médico determinou sobre a causa da febre. Correto: O médico determinou a causa da febre.

Learners also struggle with the subjunctive mood when 'determinar' is used as a command. If you say 'O chefe determinou que nós fazemos o relatório,' it is grammatically incorrect. Because 'determinar' in this sense is an expression of will or an order, the following verb must be in the subjunctive: 'O chefe determinou que nós façamos o relatório.' Forgetting the subjunctive is a hallmark of intermediate learners that prevents them from sounding truly fluent.

Confusion with 'Determinado': The adjective 'determinado' can mean 'determined' (brave/resolute) or 'a certain/specific.' Some learners use 'determinar' when they should use 'especificar.' While 'determinar' can mean to specify, it usually implies a process of finding out or establishing, whereas 'especificar' is simply about listing details. If you want someone to give you details, 'especificar' is often better.

Errado: Eu vou determinar que eu vou ganhar. Correto: Eu estou determinado a ganhar.

Finally, be careful with the word 'determinante.' While in English 'determinant' is often a noun (especially in math), in Portuguese, it is frequently used as an adjective meaning 'decisive.' Saying 'Este fator é determinante' is very common. Don't confuse the verb 'determinar' with the noun 'determinação' (determination/willpower). You 'have determination' (tem determinação), but you 'determine the rules' (determina as regras).

Não confunda: determinar (ação) com determinação (qualidade).

To truly master Portuguese, you need to know when to use determinar and when to opt for a synonym that might fit the context better. Portuguese is a rich language with many verbs that overlap in meaning but differ in register and specific application. Understanding these differences will help you avoid repetition and express yourself with more precision.

Determinar vs. Estabelecer: 'Estabelecer' (to establish) is often used for rules, patterns, or relationships. While 'determinar' implies a definitive act of setting or finding, 'estabelecer' suggests creating a foundation. You 'determina uma multa' (determine a fine), but you 'estabelece uma conexão' (establish a connection).
Determinar vs. Fixar: 'Fixar' (to fix/set) is used when you want to make something permanent or stable. It is very common for prices, dates, and gazes. 'Fixar um preço' (to set a price) is more common in commerce than 'determinar um preço,' although both are understood. 'Fixar' has a more physical connotation of 'pinning something down.'
Determinar vs. Indicar: 'Indicar' (to indicate/point out) is a softer alternative. If 'determinar' is about finding the absolute truth, 'indicar' is about pointing toward it. A sign 'indica' the way; a study 'determina' the result. Use 'indicar' when there is less certainty or when you are just making a suggestion.

Enquanto o juiz vai determinar a sentença, o advogado vai sugerir uma alternativa mais leve.

In more casual settings, you might use 'marcar' (to mark/schedule). Instead of 'determinar a hora da reunião,' people usually say 'marcar a reunião.' 'Marcar' is much more common for social appointments. If you use 'determinar' for a coffee date, you will sound like a robot or a very bossy person. Another alternative is 'definir' (to define). 'Definir' and 'determinar' are very close, but 'definir' is more about the essence or description of something, while 'determinar' is about its limits or causes.

Determinar vs. Resolver: 'Resolver' means to solve a problem or to make a firm decision. In the sense of making a decision, 'resolver' is very common in Brazil: 'Eu resolvi viajar' (I decided/resolved to travel). 'Determinar' in this context would be much more formal and imply a stronger, perhaps even external, necessity.

É preciso definir os objetivos antes de determinar os recursos necessários para o projeto.

Lastly, consider 'decretar' (to decree). This is a direct synonym for 'determinar' in a legal or governmental sense, but it is even more formal. A president 'decreta' a state of emergency. Using 'determinar' is slightly more flexible, as it can be used by anyone in a position of authority, not just high-ranking government officials. By choosing between these synonyms, you can tailor your Portuguese to the exact level of formality and meaning you desire.

O sucesso não é determinado apenas pelo talento, mas também pelo esforço constante.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The word 'terminal' (like an airport terminal or a terminal illness) comes from the same Latin root 'terminus', meaning a boundary or end point.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /de.teɾ.mi.ˈnaɾ/

US /de.teɾ.mi.ˈnaɾ/

The stress is on the last syllable: 'nar'.

Reimt sich auf

cantar falar amar andar olhar chegar pensar estudar

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing the 'de' like the English 'day'. It should be a short 'e'.
Stress on the 'mi' syllable instead of the 'nar'.
Forgetting to tap the 'r' sounds.
Pronouncing the final 'r' too strongly like an English 'r'.
Nasalizing the 'mi' syllable unnecessarily.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Easy to recognize due to the English cognate 'determine'.

Schreiben 4/5

Requires knowledge of the subjunctive mood in formal clauses.

Sprechen 3/5

Easy to conjugate but requires correct stress on the last syllable.

Hören 2/5

Clear pronunciation makes it easy to pick out in speech.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

decidir fazer causa regra limite

Als Nächstes lernen

estabelecer decretar especificar concluir analisar

Fortgeschritten

determinismo univocamente jurisprudência exógeno nulidade

Wichtige Grammatik

Subjunctive Mood after Verbs of Command

O juiz determinou que ele *fosse* solto.

Reflexive Pronoun Placement

Eu *me* determinei a estudar (Proclisis).

Regular -ar Verb Conjugation

Nós determin*amos*, eles determin*am*.

Passive Voice with 'Ser'

O resultado *foi determinado* pelo esforço.

Preposition 'a' with Reflexive Verbs

Determinar-se *a* fazer algo.

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Beispiele nach Niveau

Eu vou determinar a hora do almoço.

I am going to determine the lunch time.

Simple future with 'vou' + infinitive.

O professor determina a lição de casa.

The teacher determines the homework.

Present tense, third person singular.

Você pode determinar o preço?

Can you determine the price?

Interrogative sentence with 'pode'.

Nós determinamos o vencedor do jogo.

We determine the winner of the game.

Present tense, first person plural.

Ela determina as regras da brincadeira.

She determines the rules of the game.

Subject-verb agreement with 'ela'.

Eles determinam o caminho no mapa.

They determine the path on the map.

Present tense, third person plural.

O juiz determina quem ganha.

The judge determines who wins.

Use of 'quem' as a relative pronoun.

Determine a cor certa agora.

Determine the right color now.

Imperative mood (command).

O clima determina o que vamos vestir hoje.

The weather determines what we are going to wear today.

Causal relationship expressed with 'determina'.

O médico determinou que eu preciso de repouso.

The doctor determined that I need rest.

Past tense followed by a 'que' clause.

Precisamos determinar o local da festa amanhã.

We need to determine the party location tomorrow.

Infinitive after the auxiliary 'precisamos'.

Ele é um estudante muito determinado.

He is a very determined student.

Past participle used as an adjective.

A empresa determinou novas regras de segurança.

The company determined new safety rules.

Transitive direct usage with a noun phrase.

O GPS ajuda a determinar a nossa posição.

The GPS helps to determine our position.

Verb phrase 'ajuda a' + infinitive.

Não foi possível determinar a causa do acidente.

It was not possible to determine the cause of the accident.

Impersonal construction 'foi possível'.

Determine o valor de X na equação.

Determine the value of X in the equation.

Common academic imperative.

A diretoria determinou que a reunião seja cancelada.

The board determined that the meeting be canceled.

Use of the present subjunctive 'seja' after 'determinou que'.

Eu me determinei a aprender um novo idioma este ano.

I determined [myself] to learn a new language this year.

Reflexive verb 'determinar-se' + preposition 'a'.

O estudo determinou que o fumo prejudica a saúde.

The study determined that smoking harms health.

Reporting scientific findings.

Fatores genéticos podem determinar a cor dos olhos.

Genetic factors can determine eye color.

Modal verb 'podem' + infinitive.

O juiz determinou a soltura imediata do prisioneiro.

The judge determined the immediate release of the prisoner.

Formal legal command.

É difícil determinar qual é a melhor opção agora.

It is difficult to determine which is the best option now.

Impersonal expression 'é difícil'.

O governo determinou o fechamento das fronteiras.

The government determined the closing of the borders.

Political/administrative usage.

Eles estão determinados a vencer o campeonato.

They are determined to win the championship.

Adjective 'determinados' describing a state of mind.

A qualidade do solo determina a produtividade da colheita.

The soil quality determines the harvest productivity.

Expressing complex causality.

O contrato determina as responsabilidades de cada sócio.

The contract determines the responsibilities of each partner.

Legal/Business context.

A pesquisa determinou que a tendência é de crescimento.

The research determined that the trend is toward growth.

Reporting analytical results.

O gerente determinou que todos os prazos fossem cumpridos.

The manager determined that all deadlines be met.

Past subjunctive 'fossem' after past tense 'determinou'.

Em um determinado momento, a situação ficou fora de controle.

At a certain moment, the situation got out of control.

Use of 'determinado' as 'a certain/specific'.

O DNA determina muitas de nossas características físicas.

DNA determines many of our physical characteristics.

Scientific fact-stating.

A prefeitura determinou a demolição do prédio antigo.

The city hall determined the demolition of the old building.

Administrative order.

O sucesso de um projeto é determinado pelo planejamento.

The success of a project is determined by the planning.

Passive voice construction.

O autor tenta determinar a essência da alma brasileira.

The author tries to determine the essence of the Brazilian soul.

Abstract literary usage.

A jurisprudência determinou uma nova interpretação da lei.

Jurisprudence determined a new interpretation of the law.

Highly formal legal terminology.

Fatores macroeconômicos determinam a flutuação do câmbio.

Macroeconomic factors determine the exchange rate fluctuation.

Technical economic discourse.

O filósofo questiona se o destino é determinado ou livre.

The philosopher questions whether destiny is determined or free.

Philosophical inquiry.

A análise química determinou a presença de metais pesados.

The chemical analysis determined the presence of heavy metals.

Scientific precision.

O conselho determinou que as medidas fossem imediatas.

The council determined that the measures be immediate.

Formal administrative command.

Sua conduta determinará o futuro de sua carreira na empresa.

Your conduct will determine the future of your career in the company.

Future tense expressing consequence.

Não se pode determinar com exatidão o início da civilização.

One cannot determine with exactness the beginning of civilization.

Impersonal 'se' with 'pode'.

A ontologia busca determinar as categorias do ser.

Ontology seeks to determine the categories of being.

Advanced philosophical terminology.

O acórdão determinou a nulidade absoluta do processo.

The court ruling determined the absolute nullity of the process.

Specialized judicial language.

Variáveis exógenas determinam o equilíbrio do modelo.

Exogenous variables determine the equilibrium of the model.

Technical scientific/economic usage.

O historiador determinou a cronologia dos eventos arcaicos.

The historian determined the chronology of archaic events.

Academic research context.

A vontade soberana determinou os rumos da nação.

The sovereign will determined the course of the nation.

Elevated literary style.

É imperativo determinar a causa raiz da falha sistêmica.

It is imperative to determine the root cause of the systemic failure.

Professional engineering/IT context.

O texto legal determina as sanções para o descumprimento.

The legal text determines the sanctions for non-compliance.

Formal regulatory language.

A subjetividade do observador pode determinar a percepção.

The observer's subjectivity can determine perception.

Psychological/Philosophical nuance.

Häufige Kollokationen

determinar a causa

determinar o valor

determinar o futuro

determinar as regras

determinar a posição

determinar o prazo

determinar a sentença

determinar o destino

determinar o escopo

determinar a identidade

Häufige Phrasen

conforme determinado

— As previously established or ordered by a rule or authority.

Tudo foi feito conforme determinado em contrato.

determinar por lei

— To establish something as a legal requirement.

O uso de cinto de segurança é determinado por lei.

difícil de determinar

— Something that is hard to figure out or define precisely.

A origem do vírus é difícil de determinar.

determinar o curso

— To set the direction or path for something to follow.

Essa decisão vai determinar o curso da nossa história.

determinar a sorte

— To decide the outcome or fortune of someone.

O sorteio vai determinar a sorte dos competidores.

determinar limites

— To set boundaries or restrictions on something.

É preciso determinar limites para as crianças.

determinar prioridades

— To decide which tasks are most important.

Devemos determinar as prioridades da semana.

determinar responsabilidades

— To assign specific duties to people.

O gerente determinou as responsabilidades de cada um.

determinar o modo

— To establish the way or method of doing something.

O manual determina o modo de instalação.

determinar a validade

— To check if something is still legal or usable.

O fiscal vai determinar a validade dos produtos.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

determinar vs decidir

Decidir is for choosing between options; determinar is for establishing facts or rules.

determinar vs resolver

Resolver is for solving problems or personal decisions; determinar is more authoritative.

determinar vs terminar

Terminar means to finish; determinar means to establish or decide.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"estar determinado a"

— To be completely focused and committed to achieving a specific goal.

Ele está determinado a vencer o medo.

common

"fator determinante"

— The most important element that decides the outcome of a situation.

A chuva foi o fator determinante para o cancelamento.

formal

"em um determinado momento"

— At a specific, though not necessarily named, point in time.

Em um determinado momento, todos pararam de falar.

neutral

"determinar o passo"

— To set the speed or rhythm for others to follow.

O líder deve determinar o passo da equipe.

metaphorical

"vontade determinada"

— A very strong and clear desire to do something.

Ela agiu com uma vontade determinada.

literary

"ter determinação"

— To possess the quality of being resolute and purposeful.

Você precisa ter determinação para ser atleta.

common

"determinar o norte"

— To provide direction or a goal (literally 'to determine the north').

Este projeto vai determinar o norte da empresa.

business

"ser o determinante"

— To be the cause or the reason for something happening.

A falta de verba foi o determinante do fracasso.

formal

"determinar a parada"

— To call the shots or be in control (informal Brazilian usage).

Quem determina a parada aqui sou eu.

slang

"prazo determinado"

— A fixed or set period of time for something to last.

O contrato é por prazo determinado.

legal

Leicht verwechselbar

determinar vs terminar

They sound similar and share the root 'termin-'.

Terminar is 'to finish' or 'to end'. Determinar is 'to establish' or 'to decide'. You 'terminar' a book, but you 'determinar' a rule.

Eu vou terminar o trabalho agora.

determinar vs destinar

Both are formal verbs ending in -inar.

Destinar means 'to earmark' or 'to intend for'. Determinar means 'to establish'. You 'destinar' money for a project, but you 'determinar' the project's budget.

O dinheiro foi destinado à educação.

determinar vs discriminar

Both involve making distinctions.

Discriminar means to distinguish or to treat unfairly. Determinar means to establish a fact. You 'discriminar' items in a list, but you 'determinar' their value.

É preciso discriminar os gastos no relatório.

determinar vs denominar

Both are formal and involve naming or identifying.

Denominar means 'to name' or 'to call'. Determinar means 'to establish'. You 'denominar' a new species, but you 'determinar' its DNA structure.

Eles denominaram a nova estrela de Sirius B.

determinar vs exterminar

Shares the root and sounds similar.

Exterminar means 'to wipe out' or 'to destroy completely'. Determinar means 'to establish'. One is creative/analytical, the other is destructive.

O veneno vai exterminar as formigas.

Satzmuster

Eu determino [noun].

Eu determino a hora.

O [noun] determina o [noun].

O sol determina o calor.

Eu me determinei a [verb].

Eu me determinei a correr.

O [noun] determinou que [subjunctive clause].

O pai determinou que ele estudasse.

[Noun] é determinado por [noun].

O preço é determinado pela oferta.

Em um determinado [noun]...

Em um determinado dia, ele saiu.

Não se pode determinar [noun]...

Não se pode determinar a origem.

[Noun] determina univocamente [noun].

A função determina univocamente o valor.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

determinação

determinismo

determinante

indeterminação

Verben

predeterminar

indeterminar

Adjektive

determinado

determinante

determinístico

indeterminado

Verwandt

decisão

limite

causa

regra

vontade

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So verwendest du es

frequency

Very common in news, law, science, and education.

Häufige Fehler

Eu determinei para ir ao cinema. → Eu decidi ir ao cinema.
Using 'determinar' for simple personal choices is too formal and the preposition 'para' is incorrect here.
O juiz determinou que ele vai para a prisão. → O juiz determinou que ele vá para a prisão.
After 'determinou que' in a command context, you must use the subjunctive 'vá' instead of the indicative 'vai'.
Eu estou muito determinante. → Eu estou muito determinado.
'Determinante' is an adjective meaning 'decisive' (like a factor). 'Determinado' is the adjective for a person who has resolve.
Nós determinamos sobre o problema. → Nós determinamos a causa do problema.
'Determinar' is a direct transitive verb and does not usually take the preposition 'sobre'.
A lição de casa foi terminar pelo professor. → A lição de casa foi determinada pelo professor.
Confusing 'terminar' (to finish) with 'determinar' (to establish/assign).

Tipps

Subjunctive Alert

Always check if 'determinar' is being used as a command. If so, the next verb must be in the subjunctive mood. This is a common test question!

Cognate Advantage

Use your English knowledge! 'Determinar' looks and acts like 'determine.' This makes it one of the easiest formal verbs to learn and use correctly.

Stress the End

Portuguese verbs ending in -ar always have the stress on the last syllable in the infinitive. Say 'de-ter-mi-NAR' with a strong finish.

Academic Tone

If you are writing a paper in Portuguese, use 'determinar' to introduce your findings. It sounds much more professional than 'eu vi' or 'eu achei'.

Legal Language

If you see 'determinar' in a contract, pay close attention. It usually precedes a mandatory obligation that you must follow.

The Terminator

Associate the word with 'The Terminator.' He is 'determinado' to finish his task. This helps you remember both the verb and the adjective.

Reflexive Power

Use 'determinar-se a' when you want to express a New Year's resolution or a big life change. It sounds very powerful and committed.

News Keywords

When listening to the news, 'determinar' is a signal that a decision has been made by the government or a judge. Listen for what follows.

Variety is Key

Don't use 'determinar' three times in one paragraph. Mix it up with 'definir', 'estabelecer', or 'fixar' to keep your writing interesting.

Daily Goal

Every morning, say: 'Hoje, eu determino que vou [action].' This helps you practice the verb and set a positive tone for your day.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'terminator' who has a 'determined' mission to 'determine' the end of a target. They set clear boundaries and don't stop.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a judge hitting a gavel to 'determine' a sentence, or a scientist looking through a microscope to 'determine' a cause.

Word Web

decidir estabelecer fixar causar mandar limitar definir resolver

Herausforderung

Try to use 'determinar' in three different ways today: once for a rule, once for a cause, and once for a personal goal.

Wortherkunft

From the Latin verb 'determinare', which is composed of 'de-' (completely) and 'terminare' (to mark the end or boundary).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To enclose within boundaries, to limit, or to define the end of something.

Romance language family, derived from Latin.

Kultureller Kontext

No specific sensitivities, but be aware that using it as a command can sound very bossy if not in a position of authority.

English speakers often use 'decide' where Portuguese speakers might prefer 'determinar' for added precision or formality.

The concept of 'Determinismo Geográfico' (Geographic Determinism) is a common topic in Brazilian geography classes. Legal codes like the 'Código Civil' use 'determinar' thousands of times to establish rights and duties. In the movie 'The Terminator', the Portuguese title is 'O Exterminador do Futuro', using a related root.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

In a Science Lab

determinar o pH
determinar a massa
determinar a reação
determinar o resultado

In a Courtroom

determinar a prisão
determinar a multa
determinar a audiência
determinar a sentença

In a Business Meeting

determinar o orçamento
determinar o prazo
determinar as metas
determinar a estratégia

In a Math Class

determine o valor
determine a incógnita
determine a função
determine a área

Personal Motivation

estou determinado
determinar o futuro
determinar metas
vontade determinada

Gesprächseinstiege

"O que determina o seu sucesso na vida?"

"Como você determina quais são as suas prioridades?"

"Você se considera uma pessoa determinada?"

"Quem determina as regras na sua casa?"

"É possível determinar o futuro com base no passado?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Escreva sobre um momento em que você se determinou a alcançar um objetivo difícil.

Quais são os fatores que determinam a sua felicidade no dia a dia?

Descreva uma regra que o governo determinou e com a qual você concorda ou discorda.

Como o ambiente onde você cresceu determinou quem você é hoje?

Se você pudesse determinar uma nova lei para o mundo, qual seria?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, but only in formal contexts or when you want to sound very firm. For example, 'O governo determinou' is better than 'O governo decidiu' in a news report. For daily life, stick to 'decidir'.

No. It only needs the subjunctive when it is followed by 'que' and expresses a command, wish, or requirement. For example: 'Ele determinou que eu *estudasse*.' If it's just a fact, use the indicative: 'Ele determinou que a água *está* limpa.'

They are often synonyms when meaning 'a certain.' However, 'determinado' implies that the thing has been fixed or chosen, while 'específico' emphasizes its unique qualities. 'Um determinado dia' vs 'Um dia específico'.

Yes, the core meanings are identical. However, in Portugal, you might hear the reflexive 'determinar-se' slightly more often in formal literature, while in Brazil, it is very common in motivational and corporate contexts.

You say 'Eu estou determinado' (if you are male) or 'Eu estou determinada' (if you are female). This uses the verb 'estar' plus the past participle as an adjective.

It means 'decisive factor.' It is the one thing that truly makes the difference in an outcome. 'O preço foi o fator determinante para a compra.'

Yes, in academic and scientific contexts. 'A falta de chuva determina a seca.' This means the lack of rain is the cause of the drought.

Yes, it is very common in formal writing, news, and professional environments. It is less common in casual, everyday spoken Portuguese among friends.

There isn't one single opposite, but 'hesitar' (to hesitate) or 'ignorar' (to ignore) are often used in contexts where determination or finding a cause is absent.

It is a regular verb: eu determinei, você determinou, nós determinamos, eles determinaram.

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