Inklingo

How to Say "determination" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “determination” is “determinación” — use this word when referring to the quality of having strong willpower and persistence in pursuing a goal.

determinaciónB1

Use this word when referring to the quality of having strong willpower and persistence in pursuing a goal.

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decisiónB2

Use this word to refer to a firm choice or a resolution that has been made, often implying a strong purpose.

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empeñoB1

This word highlights the effort, grit, and persistence someone puts into an activity or task.

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firmeza🔊B1

Use this word to describe the quality of being solid, stable, or unwavering, often in a decision or physical state.

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pulso🔊B2

This term refers to a strength of will or control, often used in contexts requiring leadership or decisive action.

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resoluciónC1

This word denotes a strong sense of purpose and the quality of being resolved, especially when facing challenges or danger.

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English → Spanish

determinación

nounB1general
Use this word when referring to the quality of having strong willpower and persistence in pursuing a goal.

Examples

Ella tiene mucha determinación para aprender español.

She has a lot of determination to learn Spanish.

decisión

nounB2general
Use this word to refer to a firm choice or a resolution that has been made, often implying a strong purpose.

Examples

Tomamos la determinación de vender la casa.

We made the decision to sell the house.

empeño

nounB1general
This word highlights the effort, grit, and persistence someone puts into an activity or task.

Examples

Ella puso mucho empeño en aprender español.

She put a lot of effort into learning Spanish.

firmeza

feer-MEH-sahfiɾˈmeθa

nounB1general
Use this word to describe the quality of being solid, stable, or unwavering, often in a decision or physical state.
A sturdy stone pillar standing unshakable on a solid rock foundation.

Examples

Este colchón tiene la firmeza perfecta para mi espalda.

This mattress has the perfect firmness for my back.

Ella respondió con firmeza cuando le preguntaron su opinión.

She answered with firmness when they asked her opinion.

El líder mostró gran firmeza durante la crisis.

The leader showed great determination during the crisis.

The '-eza' Ending

In Spanish, adding '-eza' to an adjective (like 'firme') turns it into a noun that describes that quality. It's similar to adding '-ness' in English.

Always Feminine

Nouns ending in '-eza' are always feminine, so you should always use 'la' or 'una' with them.

Firmeza vs. Firma

Mistake: “Using 'firmeza' when you mean a signature.”

Correction: Use 'firma' for a signature on a document and 'firmeza' for the quality of being firm.

pulso

POOL-sohˈpulso

nounB2formal
This term refers to a strength of will or control, often used in contexts requiring leadership or decisive action.
An illustration of a hand holding the thick reins of a horse with a firm, steady grip, symbolizing control.

Examples

El gobierno necesita demostrar pulso firme ante la crisis económica.

The government needs to demonstrate firm control in the face of the economic crisis.

El director perdió el pulso de la reunión y todo se desordenó.

The director lost control (the grip) of the meeting and everything became disorganized.

Figurative vs. Literal

Mistake: “Using 'pulso' figuratively when you mean 'muñeca' (wrist), which is the literal body part.”

Correction: When referring to the wrist itself (where you wear a watch), use 'muñeca'. 'Pulso' refers to the steadiness or the beat, not the bone structure.

resolución

nounC1general
This word denotes a strong sense of purpose and the quality of being resolved, especially when facing challenges or danger.

Examples

Actuó con mucha resolución ante el peligro.

He acted with great resolve in the face of danger.

Determinación vs. Decisión vs. Empeño

Learners often confuse 'determinación' and 'decisión'. Remember that 'determinación' focuses on the internal quality of willpower and persistence, while 'decisión' refers to the act of making a choice or a firm commitment. Use 'empeño' specifically when highlighting the hard work and effort put into something.

Related Translations

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