determination
UK[dɪˌtɜːmɪˈneɪʃn]US[dɪˌtɜːrmɪˈneɪʃn]
n
The quality that makes you continue trying to do something even when this is difficult.
n
The process of deciding something officially or of finding out or calculating something.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
termin
ation
de
completely
termin
boundary, limit
ation
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'determination' originates from the Latin verb determinare, meaning "to enclose within boundaries," "to limit," or "to settle finally." This verb itself is composed of the intensive prefix de- and the noun terminus, which referred to a boundary stone or a fixed limit. The conceptual journey from a physical boundary to a settled decision is clear: to determine something is to fix its limits, to bring it to a conclusive end. Over time, the noun 'determination' evolved from the act of settling a dispute or defining a boundary to signify the firmness of purpose that settles one's course of action, embodying the figurative sense of a mind fixed on a goal.
Analysis
Structure: de (completely) + termin (boundary, limit) + ation (noun suffix)
- de: A Latin prefix meaning "completely," "down," or "off." It functions as an intensifier in this word.
- termin: From Latin terminus, meaning "boundary," "limit," or "end." It serves as the core root conveying the sense of a fixed point.
- ation: A suffix of Latin origin (-ationem) used to form nouns indicating an action or process, or the result of an action.
Examples
She succeeded through sheer hard work and determination.
The determination of the exact cause of the accident may take several weeks.
His jaw was set in an expression of grim determination.