determinar
“determinar” means “to decide” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
to decide, to resolve
Also: to set
📝 In Action
El equipo determinó empezar el proyecto la próxima semana.
B1The team decided to start the project next week.
Determinamos no rendirnos a pesar de los obstáculos.
B2We resolved not to give up despite the obstacles.
to determine, to ascertain
Also: to calculate
📝 In Action
La policía no pudo determinar la identidad del sospechoso.
B2The police could not determine the suspect's identity.
Es crucial determinar la cantidad exacta de material necesario.
C1It is crucial to ascertain the exact amount of necessary material.
to cause, to influence
Also: to dictate
📝 In Action
La geografía del país determina su clima y agricultura.
C1The country's geography determines (or dictates) its climate and agriculture.
La oferta y la demanda determinan el precio final.
C1Supply and demand determine the final price.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "determinar" in Spanish:
to ascertain→to calculate→to cause→to decide→to determine→to dictate→to influence→to resolve→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: determinar
Question 1 of 2
Which English translation best fits the sentence: 'La investigación determinó que el fuego fue accidental.'
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes directly from the Latin verb *determinare*, which meant 'to bound, limit, or fix the limits of.' It is built from *de-* (off, concerning) and *terminus* (boundary or limit). This origin explains why the word is used for both setting a limit (a decision) and finding the limits (an investigation).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'determinar' and 'decidir'?
'Decidir' simply means 'to decide' and is used for everyday choices. 'Determinar' is often used for more formal, final, or complex decisions, or when the decision involves calculating or discovering a fact (like a scientific result or a cause).
Does 'determinar' require a special verb form (subjunctive) afterward?
Generally, no. When 'determinar' means 'to decide' or 'to ascertain,' it is usually followed by a simple infinitive ('determinó salir') or an indicative clause ('determinó que era tarde'). It does not typically trigger the subjunctive mood.