At the A1 level, 'déterminer' is a word you might see in very specific contexts, like in a classroom or a simple instruction manual. It usually means 'to find' or 'to identify' something simple. For example, a teacher might say, 'Déterminez la couleur de cet objet' (Determine the color of this object). It is a formal way of saying 'Trouvez' (Find). At this stage, you don't need to use it often in your own speaking, but you should recognize it when you see it in a multiple-choice question or a basic exercise. Think of it as a 'detective' word: you are looking for a specific answer that is already there, waiting to be found. It is a regular verb ending in -er, so it follows the same patterns as 'parler' or 'habiter'. Just remember: it's about being sure of what you find.
At the A2 level, you start to use 'déterminer' to talk about making decisions and finding out simple facts. You might use it in a work context or when planning something. For instance, 'Nous devons déterminer l'heure du rendez-vous' (We must determine the time of the meeting). It shows that you are moving beyond basic vocabulary like 'choisir' (to choose) and using more precise language. You might also see it in short news articles or weather reports. It's important to understand that 'déterminer' implies a bit of thinking or checking before you speak. It is not just an impulsive choice. You are also learning how to use it with 'si' (if), as in 'Déterminer si c'est possible' (Determine if it's possible).
By B1, you should be comfortable using 'déterminer' in both its active and reflexive forms. You can use 'se déterminer à' to describe making a firm decision after thinking about it. For example, 'Après avoir hésité, il s'est déterminé à partir en voyage' (After hesitating, he made up his mind to go on a trip). You also use it to describe cause and effect in more detail. In a discussion about the environment or society, you might say, 'L'éducation détermine souvent l'avenir d'un enfant' (Education often determines a child's future). This level requires you to understand the nuance between 'déterminer' and 'décider'. You are using the word to show logical connections between ideas, which is a key skill for intermediate learners.
At the B2 level, 'déterminer' becomes a tool for more complex analysis. You will use it in essays and formal debates to discuss factors, influences, and definitions. You understand its use in technical fields like law, science, and administration. For example, you might write about how 'plusieurs facteurs déterminent la croissance économique' (several factors determine economic growth). You also recognize the adjective 'déterminant' as meaning 'crucial' or 'decisive'. You are expected to use the word with correct prepositions and in various tenses, including the subjunctive when necessary (e.g., 'Il est important que nous déterminions...'). Your usage should reflect a clear understanding of causality and formal register.
At the C1 level, you use 'déterminer' with precision and stylistic flair. You understand its philosophical implications—such as 'le déterminisme' (determinism)—and can discuss how free will and external factors interact. You use the verb to define the scope of abstract concepts or to critique arguments. In professional or academic writing, you use it to establish boundaries: 'Il s'agit de déterminer dans quelle mesure cette politique est efficace.' You also appreciate its use in literature, where it might describe a character's internal resolution or a fateful event. Your vocabulary includes synonyms like 'circonscrire' or 'délimiter', and you know exactly when 'déterminer' is the superior choice for clarity and impact.
At the C2 level, 'déterminer' is a word you manipulate with total mastery across all domains. You can use it in highly specialized legal, scientific, or philosophical contexts without hesitation. You understand its most subtle nuances, such as the difference between 'déterminer' (to fix/identify) and 'prédterminer' (to predetermine). You can engage in deep discussions about how language determines thought or how historical events determine cultural identity. Your use of the word is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You can use it in complex sentence structures, including those with inverted subjects or elegant relative clauses, to convey precisely how causes lead to effects in the most intricate systems.

déterminer 30초 만에

  • A versatile verb meaning to identify, define, or decide firmly.
  • Common in science, law, and formal decision-making contexts.
  • Regular -er conjugation makes it easy to use in all tenses.
  • Reflexive form 'se déterminer à' means to make up one's mind.

The French verb déterminer is a multifaceted word that English speakers often encounter early in their studies, yet its depth extends far beyond simple identification. At its core, the word is about establishing boundaries, limits, or specific outcomes. While many students first learn it in a scientific or mathematical context—such as determining the value of 'x' or the cause of a chemical reaction—its usage in daily life often leans toward the act of making a firm, resolute decision. This nuance is crucial: to 'déterminer' something is not just to pick an option, but to fix it in place so that it is no longer a matter of doubt. It suggests a process of analysis followed by a definitive conclusion. In the context of human behavior, it can also mean to be the driving force behind an action, as in 'What determined your choice?'

Scientific Identification
Used when finding the exact nature, cause, or value of something through investigation. For example, a doctor might determine the origin of a fever after several tests.
Firm Decision-Making
Used when a person or a group makes a resolute choice. This often appears as the reflexive verb 'se déterminer à', meaning to make up one's mind after hesitation.
Causal Influence
Used when one factor dictates or necessitates another. In sociology or economics, we often talk about factors that determine market prices or social trends.

Les experts ont enfin réussi à déterminer la cause exacte de la panne technique qui a paralysé le réseau.

In conversation, you will hear 'déterminer' when people are being precise. If someone says 'C'est ce qui a déterminé mon départ,' they are saying that a specific event was the 'tipping point' that forced their decision. It is more formal than 'décider' and carries a weight of finality. You might hear it in news reports, academic lectures, and professional meetings where clarity and causality are paramount. It is also used frequently in law to describe how a judge or a text defines a specific penalty or right. Understanding 'déterminer' requires seeing it as a bridge between observation and action; you observe the facts to determine the truth, and those truths determine your next steps.

Il s'est enfin déterminé à vendre sa vieille voiture pour en acheter une électrique.

Furthermore, the adjective form 'déterminé' describes a person who is resolute and purposeful. This link is vital for learners: if you have 'determined' (verb) your path, you are now 'determined' (adjective) to follow it. The word encapsulates the transition from uncertainty to certainty. In mathematical or grammatical contexts, 'déterminer' means to specify. For instance, 'déterminer le genre d'un nom' means to identify if a noun is masculine or feminine. This versatility makes it one of the most useful 'high-level' verbs for a student moving from intermediate to advanced French, as it allows for precise expression across diverse domains of life.

Legal Context
The law determines the rights of citizens (La loi détermine les droits des citoyens).
Geometric Context
Two points determine a line (Deux points déterminent une droite).

Using déterminer correctly involves understanding its transitivity and its reflexive forms. As a transitive verb, it takes a direct object. You determine a cause, a price, a location, or a result. It is an action performed upon an object or a situation. For example, 'Le jury doit déterminer la culpabilité de l'accusé' (The jury must determine the guilt of the accused). Here, the focus is on the discovery of a fact. In this usage, it is synonymous with 'établir' or 'fixer'. It is a common mistake to use 'déterminer' where 'décider' might be simpler, but 'déterminer' implies that there are factors or data points being weighed to reach that decision.

Nous devons déterminer le budget avant de commencer les travaux de rénovation.

The Reflexive Form: Se Déterminer
When used reflexively, 'se déterminer' means to make up one's mind. It is often followed by the preposition 'à'. 'Elle s'est déterminée à changer de carrière' (She made up her mind to change careers). This suggests a moment of internal resolution after a period of doubt.
Determining Factors
You can use the verb to describe how one thing influences another. 'Le climat détermine le type de végétation' (The climate determines the type of vegetation). In this sense, the subject is the cause and the object is the effect.

When constructing sentences with 'déterminer', pay close attention to the tense. In the 'passé composé', it often marks the exact moment a decision was reached or a fact was discovered. 'Nous avons déterminé que le plan était irréalisable' (We determined that the plan was unfeasible). In the future tense, it expresses an upcoming investigation or resolution: 'L'enquête déterminera les responsabilités de chacun' (The investigation will determine everyone's responsibilities). Because it is a regular '-er' verb, its conjugation is straightforward, but its impact on the sentence is significant, elevating the register from casual to formal or technical.

Quels critères allez-vous utiliser pour déterminer le vainqueur du concours ?

Another interesting usage is with an infinitive phrase. Although less common in spoken French than 'décider de', you might see 'déterminer de faire' in literature or high-level journalism. 'Il avait déterminé de ne plus jamais revenir' (He had resolved never to return). This usage reinforces the idea of a 'fixed' end point. In academic writing, you will frequently see it used to define the scope of a study: 'Cette étude vise à déterminer l'impact des réseaux sociaux sur les jeunes.' (This study aims to determine the impact of social media on youth). This shows that the verb is essential for anyone looking to write essays or reports in French.

Common Pattern 1
Déterminer + Noun (e.g., déterminer le prix).
Common Pattern 2
Se déterminer à + Infinitive (e.g., se déterminer à partir).
Common Pattern 3
Déterminer si + Clause (e.g., déterminer si c'est possible).

You will hear déterminer in a variety of professional and intellectual settings in the French-speaking world. In a scientific laboratory, researchers use it constantly when discussing results. 'Nous devons déterminer la concentration de cette solution.' In the world of business, it appears during strategic planning sessions. A CEO might say, 'Nous devons déterminer nos priorités pour le prochain trimestre.' It is a word that signals seriousness and a commitment to data-driven or logic-based decision-making. If you are watching a French police procedural drama like 'Engrenages' or 'Lupin', you will hear detectives talk about 'déterminer le mobile' (determining the motive) or 'déterminer l'heure du crime' (determining the time of the crime).

Le médecin légiste tente de déterminer les causes exactes du décès.

In the news, specifically on channels like France 24 or TV5Monde, 'déterminer' is used to discuss geopolitics and social issues. Reporters might discuss how a specific vote will 'déterminer l'avenir du pays' (determine the future of the country). It is also frequently heard in weather reports or environmental documentaries when discussing how certain factors like 'le réchauffement climatique' determine the migration patterns of birds. It is a word of cause and effect. In a more personal setting, you might hear a friend say, 'Je n'arrive pas à me déterminer,' meaning they are stuck in indecision and can't quite make a final choice between two options.

In the Courtroom
Lawyers argue to determine the liability of parties involved in a dispute.
In the Classroom
Teachers ask students to determine the main theme of a poem or the solution to an equation.

Even in sports, the word has its place. Commentators might say that a specific player's performance will 'déterminer l'issue du match' (determine the outcome of the match). It suggests that the player is the 'facteur déterminant' (the determining factor). When you go to a French government website (like service-public.fr), you will see 'déterminer' used to explain how your taxes are calculated or how your eligibility for certain benefits is established. It is the language of administration and rule-setting. Therefore, mastering this word is key to navigating life in France, from understanding your rights to following a scientific debate or simply explaining why you made a difficult life choice.

C'est l'analyse de l'ADN qui a permis de déterminer l'identité du suspect.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with déterminer is confusing it with 'terminer' (to finish). Because 'déterminer' contains the word 'terminer', some learners assume it means 'to finish completely' or 'to end a process'. While identifying something does 'end' the search, the words are not interchangeable. 'Je termine mon travail' means 'I am finishing my work', whereas 'Je détermine mon travail' makes little sense unless you mean you are defining the nature of your work. Always remember that 'déterminer' is about defining, deciding, or identifying, not about reaching the chronological end of a task.

Mistake: Confusing with 'Décider'
While they are close, 'décider' is more general. You 'décider de manger une pomme' (decide to eat an apple), but you 'déterminer la variété de la pomme' (determine the variety of the apple). Using 'déterminer' for trivial daily choices can sound overly dramatic or robotic.
Mistake: Preposition Errors
Learners often forget the 'à' in the reflexive form 'se déterminer à'. Just as you say 'se décider à', you must include the 'à' before an infinitive. Saying 'Il s'est déterminé partir' is grammatically incorrect; it must be 'Il s'est déterminé à partir'.

Another common error involves the misuse of the passive voice. In English, we often say 'The result was determined by the judge.' In French, while you can say 'Le résultat a été déterminé par le juge', it is much more natural and common to use the active voice: 'Le juge a déterminé le résultat.' Over-reliance on the passive voice is a hallmark of English-influenced French. Furthermore, be careful with the word 'déterminant'. In grammar, a 'déterminant' is a word like 'le', 'la', or 'un' (an article). If you are in a French class and the teacher asks you to 'trouver le déterminant', they are asking for the article, not for you to make a decision!

Faux: Je vais déterminer mon livre ce soir. (I will finish my book tonight.)
Correct: Je vais terminer mon livre ce soir.

Lastly, avoid using 'déterminer' as a synonym for 'to find out' in casual conversation. If you want to say 'I found out where she lives,' 'J'ai découvert où elle habite' or 'J'ai appris où elle habite' is much better. 'J'ai déterminé où elle habite' sounds like you are a private investigator or a scientist tracking a specimen. Context is everything. Use 'déterminer' when there is a sense of officiality, measurement, or a complex resolution. Misusing the register of this word won't necessarily lead to misunderstanding, but it will make your French sound slightly 'off' or overly academic in social situations.

To truly master déterminer, you must understand the words that surround it in the semantic field of decision and identification. The most obvious alternative is décider. While both involve making a choice, 'décider' is more about the act of choosing, whereas 'déterminer' is more about the factors that lead to the choice or the precise definition of that choice. Another close relative is fixer. 'Fixer' is often used for dates, prices, or rules. 'On a fixé le rendez-vous à midi' (We set the meeting for noon). 'Déterminer' could also be used here, but it would imply a more complex process of finding the right time.

Déterminer vs. Établir
'Établir' (to establish) is used when you create a fact or a link. 'Établir un record' (to set a record) or 'établir une vérité'. 'Déterminer' is the process of finding that truth. You determine the facts to establish the truth.
Déterminer vs. Identifier
'Identifier' is used specifically for recognizing someone or something. You identify a person in a photo. You determine the identity of a person through DNA. 'Déterminer' is the broader process.
Déterminer vs. Résoudre
'Résoudre' (to solve) is used for problems or puzzles. You solve a mystery. You determine the causes of the mystery. 'Résoudre' is the end goal; 'déterminer' is often the method.

Au lieu de simplement décider au hasard, nous avons analysé les données pour déterminer la meilleure stratégie.

In more formal or literary contexts, you might encounter résoudre used in the sense of 'to resolve to do something'. This is very close to 'se déterminer à'. However, 'se résoudre à' often implies a sense of resignation, as if you are doing something difficult or unpleasant. 'Il s'est résolu à vendre sa maison' suggests he didn't want to but had to. 'Il s'est déterminé à vendre sa maison' sounds more like a firm, proactive decision. Understanding these subtle emotional undertones will help you choose the right word for the right situation. There is also the verb définir (to define), which is used when you are setting the parameters or the meaning of something. 'Déterminer' and 'définir' are often used together in legal and technical texts.

Finally, consider the word induire. In science, 'induire' means to lead to or to induce. While 'déterminer' suggests a direct, fixed cause, 'induire' is often used for more subtle influences. For example, 'Cette erreur peut induire d'autres problèmes.' If you say 'Cette erreur détermine le résultat', it means the error is the sole reason for the outcome. If you say 'Cette erreur induit le résultat', it suggests a more complex sequence. By learning these alternatives, you expand your vocabulary and your ability to express complex thoughts with the precision that the French language is famous for.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The root 'terminus' refers to a boundary stone or the Roman god of boundaries. So, when you 'déterminer' something, you are literally putting a fence around a concept or a choice.

발음 가이드

UK /de.tɛʁ.mi.ne/
US /de.tɛr.mi.ne/
In French, the stress is generally on the final syllable: de-ter-mi-NÉ.
라임이 맞는 단어
terminer illuminer éliminer acheminer examiner deviner cuisiner dessiner
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing the final 'r' (it is silent in -er verbs).
  • Making the 'u' sound instead of 'i' (it is 'mi', not 'mu').
  • Over-emphasizing the first syllable like the English 'DE-termine'.
  • Nasalizing the 'in' (it is 'mi-ne', not 'main').
  • Pronouncing the 't' as a hard English 't' instead of a softer dental French 't'.

난이도

독해 2/5

Easy to recognize as it looks like the English 'determine'.

쓰기 3/5

Requires knowledge of reflexive structures and prepositions.

말하기 3/5

Pronunciation of the 'r' and silent 'er' ending is key.

듣기 2/5

Clear phonetic structure, usually easy to hear in context.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

Terminer Décider Trouver Cause Facteur

다음에 배울 것

Établir Résoudre Définir Identifier Circonscrire

고급

Le déterminisme Indéterminable Prédestination Causalité

알아야 할 문법

Regular -er verb conjugation in the present tense.

Je détermine, tu détermines, il détermine...

Reflexive verb agreement in the passé composé.

Elle s'est déterminée (agreement with feminine subject).

Use of the infinitive after prepositions like 'à' or 'de'.

Il est temps de déterminer le gagnant.

The present participle used as an adjective.

Un argument déterminant.

The passive voice with 'être' and 'par'.

Le résultat est déterminé par le hasard.

수준별 예문

1

Déterminez la bonne réponse.

Determine the correct answer.

Imperative form of a regular -er verb.

2

Il faut déterminer le prix.

We must determine the price.

Infinitive after 'il faut'.

3

Peux-tu déterminer cet objet ?

Can you identify this object?

Infinitive after 'peux-tu'.

4

Le professeur détermine le gagnant.

The teacher determines the winner.

Present tense, 3rd person singular.

5

Nous déterminons la couleur du mur.

We are determining the color of the wall.

Present tense, 1st person plural.

6

Déterminez si c'est vrai ou faux.

Determine if it is true or false.

Imperative with a conditional clause.

7

Elle détermine son trajet.

She is determining her route.

Present tense, 3rd person singular.

8

Ils déterminent la date.

They are determining the date.

Present tense, 3rd person plural.

1

Nous devons déterminer la cause du problème.

We must determine the cause of the problem.

Use of 'devoir' + infinitive.

2

L'enquête va déterminer qui a raison.

The investigation will determine who is right.

Futur proche (aller + infinitive).

3

Il s'est déterminé à faire du sport.

He made up his mind to exercise.

Passé composé of the reflexive verb 'se déterminer'.

4

Il faut déterminer si nous avons assez d'argent.

We need to determine if we have enough money.

Infinitive phrase with 'si'.

5

Le médecin détermine le traitement.

The doctor determines the treatment.

Present tense transitive usage.

6

Les parents déterminent les règles de la maison.

The parents determine the house rules.

Plural subject with transitive verb.

7

Comment déterminez-vous votre budget ?

How do you determine your budget?

Interrogative sentence with 'comment'.

8

Elle a déterminé l'emplacement de la fête.

She determined the location of the party.

Passé composé with direct object.

1

Ce facteur a déterminé son choix final.

This factor determined his final choice.

Abstract subject in the passé composé.

2

Il est difficile de déterminer l'origine de cette rumeur.

It is difficult to determine the origin of this rumor.

Impersonal construction 'Il est + adj + de'.

3

Elle s'est enfin déterminée à lui dire la vérité.

She finally made up her mind to tell him the truth.

Reflexive verb with 'à' + infinitive.

4

Le succès détermine souvent la confiance en soi.

Success often determines self-confidence.

Present tense expressing a general truth.

5

Nous avons déterminé que le projet était trop cher.

We determined that the project was too expensive.

Passé composé followed by a 'que' clause.

6

L'ADN permet de déterminer l'identité d'une personne.

DNA allows us to determine a person's identity.

Infinitive as a complement of 'permet de'.

7

Qu'est-ce qui a déterminé votre décision de partir ?

What determined your decision to leave?

Interrogative 'Qu'est-ce qui' as subject.

8

Il faut déterminer les priorités pour l'année prochaine.

We must determine the priorities for next year.

Impersonal 'Il faut' with plural object.

1

Le contexte historique détermine la structure de l'œuvre.

The historical context determines the structure of the work.

Formal academic usage.

2

Il est crucial que nous déterminions les causes de l'inflation.

It is crucial that we determine the causes of inflation.

Subjunctive mood after 'Il est crucial que'.

3

Le juge a déterminé que la preuve était irrecevable.

The judge determined that the evidence was inadmissible.

Legal context with a subordinate clause.

4

C'est un facteur déterminant pour la réussite du plan.

It is a determining factor for the success of the plan.

Usage of the present participle as an adjective.

5

L'expérience a servi à déterminer les limites du moteur.

The experiment served to determine the engine's limits.

Compound verb 'servir à' + infinitive.

6

Elle s'était déterminée à ne plus jamais se laisser faire.

She had determined never to let herself be pushed around again.

Plus-que-parfait of the reflexive verb.

7

On ne peut pas déterminer avec certitude l'issue du vote.

One cannot determine with certainty the outcome of the vote.

Adverbial phrase 'avec certitude' inserted.

8

La loi détermine les conditions d'obtention du visa.

The law determines the conditions for obtaining the visa.

Administrative register.

1

L'analyse spectrale permet de déterminer la composition des étoiles.

Spectral analysis allows for determining the composition of stars.

Scientific register with complex nouns.

2

Il s'agit de déterminer si l'acte était intentionnel ou non.

It is a matter of determining whether the act was intentional or not.

Impersonal 'Il s'agit de' construction.

3

Les circonstances ont déterminé son destin tragique.

Circumstances determined his tragic fate.

Literary usage with abstract concepts.

4

La topographie détermine le tracé de la nouvelle autoroute.

The topography determines the layout of the new highway.

Technical vocabulary (topographie, tracé).

5

Il s'est déterminé à agir malgré les risques encourus.

He resolved to act despite the risks involved.

Reflexive verb with a concessive phrase.

6

Le prix est déterminé par la loi de l'offre et de la demande.

The price is determined by the law of supply and demand.

Passive voice in an economic context.

7

Cette étude vise à déterminer l'impact du bruit sur la santé.

This study aims to determine the impact of noise on health.

Formal research objective phrasing.

8

Le genre d'un mot est déterminé par son étymologie.

The gender of a word is determined by its etymology.

Linguistic context.

1

Le déterminisme biologique ne saurait déterminer l'entièreté de l'agir humain.

Biological determinism cannot determine the entirety of human action.

Philosophical register with 'ne saurait' for impossibility.

2

L'herméneutique cherche à déterminer le sens profond des textes sacrés.

Hermeneutics seeks to determine the deep meaning of sacred texts.

Highly specialized academic vocabulary.

3

C'est l'alchimie des saveurs qui détermine la qualité d'un grand cru.

It is the alchemy of flavors that determines the quality of a great vintage.

Metaphorical and elevated register.

4

Les variables endogènes déterminent l'équilibre du système complexe.

Endogenous variables determine the equilibrium of the complex system.

Scientific/Mathematical jargon.

5

Il appartient au souverain de déterminer les orientations stratégiques.

It is up to the sovereign to determine the strategic orientations.

Formal 'Il appartient à... de' construction.

6

L'interaction des particules détermine la stabilité de la matière.

The interaction of particles determines the stability of matter.

Physics context.

7

On ne saurait déterminer a priori les conséquences d'une telle réforme.

One cannot determine a priori the consequences of such a reform.

Use of Latin 'a priori' and formal negation.

8

La syntaxe détermine la clarté de l'expression écrite.

Syntax determines the clarity of written expression.

Linguistic and stylistic focus.

자주 쓰는 조합

Déterminer la cause
Déterminer le prix
Se déterminer à
Facteur déterminant
Déterminer l'issue
Déterminer avec précision
Déterminer les responsabilités
Déterminer une date
Déterminer le vainqueur
Déterminer les besoins

자주 쓰는 구문

Reste à déterminer

— Used when something is still unknown or undecided.

Le lieu de la réunion reste à déterminer.

À déterminer (A.D.)

— Similar to 'TBD' (To Be Determined) in English.

Date de livraison : à déterminer.

Difficile à déterminer

— Used when a cause or fact is obscure.

L'origine de l'odeur est difficile à déterminer.

Déterminer le sort de

— To decide the future or destiny of someone/something.

Cette bataille va déterminer le sort de la ville.

Déterminer le genre

— To identify if a noun is masculine or feminine.

Il faut déterminer le genre du mot 'table'.

Déterminer la valeur

— To appraise or calculate how much something is worth.

L'expert doit déterminer la valeur du tableau.

Se déterminer pour

— To choose one option over others.

Il s'est déterminé pour la solution la plus simple.

Déterminer un périmètre

— To set a physical or conceptual boundary.

La police a déterminé un périmètre de sécurité.

Déterminer une politique

— To establish a course of action for a group.

Le gouvernement détermine la politique étrangère.

Déterminer les critères

— To establish the standards for a choice.

Quels critères vont déterminer notre sélection ?

자주 혼동되는 단어

déterminer vs Terminer

Means to finish a task, not to identify or decide something.

déterminer vs Décider

More general; 'déterminer' implies more analysis or identification.

déterminer vs Définir

To give a definition; 'déterminer' is often to find a specific value or cause.

관용어 및 표현

"Déterminer le vrai du faux"

— To distinguish truth from lies or accuracy from error.

Il est dur de déterminer le vrai du faux dans cette histoire.

Neutral
"Être déterminé comme jamais"

— To be more resolute and motivated than ever before.

Pour ce match, je suis déterminé comme jamais !

Informal
"Un ton déterminé"

— A voice or manner that shows one has made up their mind.

Il a parlé d'un ton déterminé.

Neutral
"La chance a déterminé..."

— Luck or fate decided the outcome.

La chance a déterminé le gagnant du tirage au sort.

Neutral
"Déterminer sa conduite"

— To decide how one is going to behave.

Il doit déterminer sa conduite face à cette crise.

Formal
"Tout est déterminé"

— Everything is already decided or fated (philosophical).

Dans sa vision du monde, tout est déterminé à l'avance.

Academic
"Déterminer un cap"

— To set a direction or strategy (often maritime metaphor).

Le dirigeant doit déterminer un cap pour l'entreprise.

Business
"Déterminer la marche à suivre"

— To decide on the procedure or next steps.

Nous devons déterminer la marche à suivre pour le projet.

Professional
"Se déterminer en connaissance de cause"

— To make a decision while knowing all the facts.

Il veut se déterminer en connaissance de cause.

Formal
"Un air déterminé"

— An appearance that suggests resolution and purpose.

Elle marchait avec un air déterminé vers le bureau.

Neutral

혼동하기 쉬운

déterminer vs Terminer

They share the same suffix.

'Terminer' is chronological (end of time/task); 'déterminer' is logical (end of doubt/search).

Je termine mon café (I finish my coffee) vs Je détermine le prix du café (I set the price).

déterminer vs Détériorer

Similar starting letters.

'Détériorer' means to damage or worsen.

Le temps détériore le mur (Weather damages the wall).

déterminer vs Détecter

Both involve finding something.

'Détecter' is about sensing or noticing; 'déterminer' is about concluding or defining.

Le capteur détecte la fumée (The sensor detects smoke).

déterminer vs Destiner

Phonetically similar.

'Destiner' means to intend for or to earmark.

Ce cadeau est destiné à Marie (This gift is for Marie).

déterminer vs Déterminant

Noun vs Verb.

As a noun, it's a grammar term (the, a, my). As a verb form, it's 'determining'.

Trouvez le déterminant dans la phrase.

문장 패턴

A1

Déterminez [Noun].

Déterminez la couleur.

A2

Il faut déterminer si [Clause].

Il faut déterminer si c'est possible.

B1

[Subject] a déterminé mon choix.

Son avis a déterminé mon choix.

B1

Se déterminer à [Infinitive].

Elle s'est déterminée à voyager.

B2

C'est un facteur déterminant pour [Noun].

C'est un facteur déterminant pour la victoire.

C1

Vise à déterminer [Noun].

L'étude vise à déterminer l'impact du produit.

C1

Reste à déterminer [Noun].

Le coupable reste à déterminer.

C2

Ne saurait déterminer [Noun].

Cela ne saurait déterminer l'avenir.

어휘 가족

명사

Détermination (f) - Resoluteness or the act of determining.
Déterminant (m) - A factor or a grammatical article.
Déterminisme (m) - The philosophical concept of determinism.

동사

Prédéterminer - To decide in advance.
Surdéterminer - To overdetermine (social sciences).

형용사

Déterminé - Resolute, fixed, or identified.
Déterminable - That which can be determined.
Déterminant - Crucial or decisive.

관련

Terme (m)
Terminaison (f)
Terminal (adj)
Terminer
Indéterminé

사용법

frequency

Common in professional, academic, and scientific French.

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'déterminer' to mean 'to finish'. Je termine mon travail.

    Learners see 'terminer' inside the word and get confused. 'Déterminer' is about defining or deciding, not ending.

  • Saying 'Il s'est déterminé partir'. Il s'est déterminé à partir.

    The reflexive form 'se déterminer' requires the preposition 'à' before an infinitive.

  • Pronouncing the 'r' at the end. dé-ter-mi-né

    The final 'er' in French infinitives is pronounced like an 'é'.

  • Using 'déterminer' for a simple choice like an ice cream flavor. Je choisis le chocolat.

    'Déterminer' is too formal for trivial choices; it sounds like you're performing a scientific study on your dessert.

  • Forgetting the accent on the first 'é'. déterminer

    Without the accent, the pronunciation and spelling are incorrect in French.

Reflexive Agreement

When using 'se déterminer' in the passé composé, remember to agree the past participle with the subject. 'Elle s'est déterminée' needs an extra 'e'.

Color Precision

Use 'déterminer' when choosing colors for a professional project, like branding. It sounds more intentional than 'choisir'.

Essay Writing

Start your analysis by saying 'Nous allons déterminer les causes de...' to immediately signal a logical approach to your reader.

Setting Prices

In a business negotiation, use 'déterminer les tarifs' to suggest that the prices are based on market analysis and are not arbitrary.

The Detective's Verb

Associate 'déterminer' with Sherlock Holmes. He doesn't just 'find' things; he 'determines' the truth through clues.

Silent 'R'

Never pronounce the 'r' at the end of 'déterminer'. It should sound exactly like the past participle 'déterminé'.

Indecision

If you are struggling to choose, say 'Je n'arrive pas à me déterminer.' It sounds more sophisticated than 'Je ne sais pas'.

Variables

When discussing experiments, always use 'déterminer' for the results you are measuring.

Rights and Duties

In legal discussions, 'déterminer' is the verb used to describe how laws specify what is allowed and what is not.

Logical Flow

Use 'déterminer' to connect a cause to an effect. 'X détermine Y' is a strong, clear way to show causality.

암기하기

기억법

Think of a 'terminator' who has a fixed 'determination' to find his target. He 'determines' (identifies) where the target is and then 'determines' (decides) to catch them.

시각적 연상

Imagine a scientist looking through a microscope to find a specific bacteria. He is 'determining' what it is. Or imagine a judge slamming a gavel to 'determine' a sentence.

Word Web

Cause Prix Décision Science Limite Fin Identité Facteur

챌린지

Try to use 'déterminer' three times today: once for a scientific fact, once for a price, and once for a personal decision.

어원

From the Latin verb 'determinare', which means to enclose within boundaries or to limit.

원래 의미: To set bounds, to mark the end of something.

Romance (Latin root).

문화적 맥락

No specific sensitivities; it is a neutral, professional word.

In English, 'determine' often sounds quite formal. In French, it is also formal but used more broadly in technical and academic life.

Le déterminisme social (Pierre Bourdieu) L'existence précède l'essence (Sartre - debating what determines a human) Déterminer la longitude (historical scientific quest)

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Science & Research

  • Déterminer les variables
  • Déterminer la cause
  • Déterminer le dosage
  • Déterminer la structure

Law & Justice

  • Déterminer la peine
  • Déterminer la culpabilité
  • Déterminer les droits
  • Déterminer la légalité

Business & Finance

  • Déterminer le budget
  • Déterminer les objectifs
  • Déterminer le prix de vente
  • Déterminer la rentabilité

Education & Grammar

  • Déterminer le genre
  • Déterminer la fonction
  • Déterminer la réponse
  • Déterminer le sujet

Personal Decisions

  • Se déterminer à partir
  • Déterminer son avenir
  • Déterminer ses envies
  • Se déterminer pour un camp

대화 시작하기

"Qu'est-ce qui a déterminé ton choix de carrière ?"

"Comment peut-on déterminer si une information est vraie sur Internet ?"

"Est-ce que tu penses que notre environnement détermine qui nous sommes ?"

"Quel a été le facteur déterminant de tes dernières vacances ?"

"Comment vas-tu déterminer le budget pour ton prochain projet ?"

일기 주제

Décrivez un moment où vous avez dû déterminer une solution à un problème difficile au travail.

Pensez-vous que votre destin est déjà déterminé ou que vous avez le choix total ?

Quels critères utilisez-vous pour déterminer si vous faites confiance à quelqu'un ?

Écrivez sur une décision importante : comment vous êtes-vous déterminé à la prendre ?

Analysez les facteurs qui déterminent votre bonheur au quotidien.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

No, its most common use is actually 'to identify' or 'to establish' (like a cause or a value). The meaning 'to decide' is more often found in the reflexive form 'se déterminer à' or in very formal writing.

Yes, it is a regular -er verb. It follows the standard conjugation patterns: je détermine, nous déterminons, ils déterminent.

Yes, as an adjective: 'Je suis déterminé'. In this case, it means you are resolute and focused on a goal.

'Fixer' is usually for setting something specific like a date or price. 'Déterminer' implies a process of figuring out what that date or price should be based on data.

In French, we say 'à déterminer', often abbreviated as 'A.D.' in schedules or lists.

Constantly. 'Déterminez la valeur de x' is a standard instruction in French math problems.

Yes. 'Le scientifique a déterminé que l'expérience était un succès.' It introduces a factual conclusion.

It means 'decisive factor' or 'the thing that makes the difference'. For example: 'Sa vitesse était le facteur déterminant.'

Usually, it is 'déterminer [something]' (no preposition). However, 'se déterminer à [faire quelque chose]' is the standard reflexive form for deciding to do something.

Yes, 'déterminer l'emplacement' or 'déterminer la position' is very common in GPS and mapping contexts.

셀프 테스트 192 질문

writing

Write a sentence using 'déterminer' to talk about a scientific result.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'se déterminer à' to describe a personal decision.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'déterminer' in the future tense.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Explain a 'facteur déterminant' in your life.

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writing

Translate: 'We need to determine if we have enough time.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Use 'déterminer' to discuss a budget.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a formal sentence about law and 'déterminer'.

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writing

Describe a detective determining a motive.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a short dialogue using 'se déterminer'.

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writing

Translate: 'The price is determined by the quality.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Use 'déterminer' in a sentence about education.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Describe determining a route on a map.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence about determining the cause of a sickness.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Translate: 'It is hard to determine who is right.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Use 'déterminer' to talk about a sports match outcome.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence about determining the value of a house.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Translate: 'Determine the gender of these nouns.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Use 'déterminer' in the subjunctive mood.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence about determining a meeting time.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Use 'déterminer' to discuss environmental influence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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speaking

Say 'We must determine the cause of the problem' in French.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I made up my mind to leave' in French.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain what 'facteur déterminant' means using French words.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask 'How do you determine the price?' in French.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'The future remains to be determined' in French.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe yourself as 'determined' in French.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'The investigation will determine the truth' in French.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Ask 'What determined your choice?' in French.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Determine the correct answer' in French.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'We determined that it was impossible' in French.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Use 'déterminer' in a sentence about a budget.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'He has a resolute tone' in French.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The law determines our rights' in French.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I can't make up my mind' in French (using reflexive).

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Ask 'Can you determine the origin of this?' in French.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'It's a decisive factor' in French.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The doctor determines the dose' in French.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'We must determine the priorities' in French.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The climate determines the life' in French.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Everything is determined' in French.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen to this sentence: 'Le jury doit déterminer le vainqueur.' What must the jury do?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Je me suis enfin déterminé à partir.' Did the speaker make a decision?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'L'origine du feu reste à déterminer.' Do we know how the fire started?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'C'est le facteur déterminant de l'échec.' Was this thing important to the failure?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Déterminez la valeur de x.' What subject is this likely from?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Le prix est déterminé par l'offre.' What determines the price?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Elle a un air déterminé.' How is she feeling?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Nous devons déterminer les responsabilités.' What are they looking for?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'L'enquête a déterminé que c'était un accident.' What was the conclusion?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Il faut déterminer si c'est légal.' What is the goal?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Le médecin détermine le diagnostic.' What is the doctor doing?

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정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'La météo détermine le départ.' What influences the departure?

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정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'On cherche à déterminer l'impact.' What are they searching for?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Tout est déterminé par le hasard.' What is the cause of everything here?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Déterminez le genre du mot.' What should you identify?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 192 correct

Perfect score!

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