Defined vs. Determined: Know the Difference
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By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Defined means clearly described or outlined, while determined means having a firm decision or being resolute.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
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Comparison Chart
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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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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Determined
Determined involves being unwavering or steadfast.
He was determined to defend his thesis successfully.
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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Defined
To state the precise meaning of (a word or sense of a word, for example).
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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Determined
Decided; resolute, possessing much determination.
I'm determined to get a good grade on my exam.
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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Defined
Clearly defined;
I have no formed opinion about the chances of success
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Defined
Defined means clearly stated or described.
The rules of the game were clearly defined in the manual.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Does 'determined' imply perseverance?
Yes, it often involves persistence and steadfastness.
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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.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Is 'defined' always about clarity?
Yes, it's about making something clear and understandable.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
How important is it for terms to be defined?
Very, as it ensures clarity and understanding.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
What does 'defined' mean?
Defined refers to something being clearly described or outlined.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
How is 'determined' used?
Determined describes a firm decision or resolute attitude.
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Shumaila Saeed
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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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Are definitions static?
Typically, yes, defined things have set descriptions or limits.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Is being determined a positive trait?
Generally, it's seen as positive, indicating resolve and commitment.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Does 'determined' imply a challenge?
It can, especially if the resolve is in the face of difficulty.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
How do definitions affect understanding?
They clarify meaning and reduce ambiguity.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
What is an example of being determined?
Pursuing education goals despite financial challenges.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Why is being determined important?
It drives individuals to achieve goals and overcome obstacles.
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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.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Does 'defined' relate to precision?
Yes, it often involves being precise and specific.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Can determination change over time?
Yes, determination can fluctuate with circumstances.
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Shumaila Saeed
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.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Is 'determined' only used for people?
Mostly, as it describes a human attitude or decision.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Is 'defined' a term used in science?
Yes, it's commonly used to describe precise meanings or concepts.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
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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.