Defined vs. Determined: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Defined means clearly described or outlined, while determined means having a firm decision or being resolute.
Key Differences
Defined involves providing a clear description or explanation of something, such as a term, concept, or process. Determined, however, refers to a state of firmness or resoluteness in decision-making or attitude.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
When something is defined, its boundaries, characteristics, or nature are clearly established. In contrast, when someone is determined, they exhibit a strong commitment or resolve towards achieving a goal.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Definitions are often used to clarify meanings and eliminate ambiguity. Being determined, on the other hand, is about having a clear purpose and unwavering dedication to pursuing it.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Defined can also mean to illustrate the distinct features of an object or idea. Determined, however, implies a sense of direction and focus, often in the face of challenges or obstacles.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
In mathematics or science, defined terms have specific, agreed-upon meanings. Determined in a broader context can refer to the process of arriving at a conclusion or decision through analysis or investigation.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
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Defined and Determined Definitions
Defined
Defined involves setting clear boundaries or limits.
The property lines were precisely defined by the surveyor.
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Dec 09, 2023
Determined
Determined can mean showing strong will or resolve.
Despite setbacks, they remained determined to reach their goal.
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Dec 09, 2023
Defined
Defined indicates the precise nature of something.
The roles in the project were well defined to avoid confusion.
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Dec 09, 2023
Determined
Determined involves being unwavering or steadfast.
He was determined to defend his thesis successfully.
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Dec 09, 2023
Defined
Defined can mean making something distinct or clear.
The artist defined the shapes in the painting with bold lines.
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Dec 09, 2023
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Determined
Determined means resolute or firm in decision.
She was determined to finish the marathon despite the pain.
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Dec 09, 2023
Defined
Defined refers to explaining the meaning of a term or concept.
The term 'sustainability' is defined as meeting present needs without compromising future generations.
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Dec 09, 2023
Determined
Marked by or showing determination; resolute
Was engaged in a protracted struggle with a determined enemy.
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Oct 19, 2023
Defined
To state the precise meaning of (a word or sense of a word, for example).
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Oct 19, 2023
Defined
To describe the nature or basic qualities of; explain
Define the properties of a new drug.
A study that defines people according to their median incomes.
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Oct 19, 2023
Determined
Decided; resolute, possessing much determination.
I'm determined to get a good grade on my exam.
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Oct 19, 2023
Defined
To make clear the outline or form of; delineate
Gentle hills that were defined against the sky.
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Oct 19, 2023
Defined
To specify distinctly
Define the weapons to be used in limited warfare.
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Oct 19, 2023
Defined
To give form or meaning to
"For him, a life is defined by action" (Jay Parini).
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Oct 19, 2023
Determined
Characterized by great determination;
A struggle against a determined enemy
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Oct 19, 2023
Determined
Having been learned or found or determined especially by investigation
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Oct 19, 2023
Determined
Devoting full strength and concentrated attention to;
Made continued and determined efforts to find and destroy enemy headquarters
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Oct 19, 2023
Defined
(bodybuilding) Having extreme muscle separation as a result of low body fat.
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Oct 19, 2023
Determined
Determined or decided upon as by an authority;
Date and place are already determined
The dictated terms of surrender
The time set for the launching
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Oct 19, 2023
Defined
Clearly characterized or delimited;
Lost in a maze of words both defined and undefined
Each child has clearly defined duties
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Oct 19, 2023
Determined
Determined implies a fixed purpose or intention.
The team was determined to win the championship this year.
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Dec 09, 2023
Defined
Showing clearly the outline or profile or boundary;
Hills defined against the evening sky
The setting sun showed the outlined figure of a man standing on the hill
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Oct 19, 2023
Determined
Determined denotes firmness in making a choice or decision.
She was determined to choose the best path for her career.
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Dec 09, 2023
Defined
Clearly defined;
I have no formed opinion about the chances of success
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Oct 19, 2023
Defined
Defined means clearly stated or described.
The rules of the game were clearly defined in the manual.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Does 'determined' imply perseverance?
Yes, it often involves persistence and steadfastness.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Can a concept be both defined and determined?
A concept can be defined, but 'determined' applies more to actions or attitudes.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Is 'defined' always about clarity?
Yes, it's about making something clear and understandable.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
How important is it for terms to be defined?
Very, as it ensures clarity and understanding.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
What does 'defined' mean?
Defined refers to something being clearly described or outlined.
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Dec 09, 2023
How is 'determined' used?
Determined describes a firm decision or resolute attitude.
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Dec 09, 2023
Can someone's goals be defined?
Goals can be defined in terms of clarity, but their pursuit is often determined.
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Dec 09, 2023
Are definitions static?
Typically, yes, defined things have set descriptions or limits.
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Dec 09, 2023
Is being determined a positive trait?
Generally, it's seen as positive, indicating resolve and commitment.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Does 'determined' imply a challenge?
It can, especially if the resolve is in the face of difficulty.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
How do definitions affect understanding?
They clarify meaning and reduce ambiguity.
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Dec 09, 2023
What is an example of being determined?
Pursuing education goals despite financial challenges.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Why is being determined important?
It drives individuals to achieve goals and overcome obstacles.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Can a decision be both defined and determined?
A decision can be defined in terms of its specifics, and one can be determined in making it.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Does 'defined' relate to precision?
Yes, it often involves being precise and specific.
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Dec 09, 2023
Can determination change over time?
Yes, determination can fluctuate with circumstances.
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Dec 09, 2023
Can a role be both defined and determined?
A role can be clearly defined, and one can be determined to fulfill it.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Is 'determined' only used for people?
Mostly, as it describes a human attitude or decision.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Is 'defined' a term used in science?
Yes, it's commonly used to describe precise meanings or concepts.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.