Inklingo

How to Say "determined" in Spanish

English → Spanish

decidido

deh-see-DEE-doh/de.θiˈði.ðo/

AdjectiveB1General
Use 'decidido' when referring to someone's resolute character or a strong internal decision to achieve something.
A focused child firmly plants a small red flag on the top of a grassy mound, symbolizing determination and resolve.

Examples

Llegó al examen con una actitud muy decidida.

She arrived at the exam with a very determined attitude.

El presidente se mostró decidido a implementar los cambios.

The president showed himself to be resolute in implementing the changes.

Eres muy decidido, siempre sabes lo que quieres.

You are very determined; you always know what you want.

Adjective Agreement

Like all Spanish adjectives, 'decidido' must match the person or thing it describes in both gender and number: 'Ella es decidida' (She is determined) vs. 'Ellos son decididos' (They are determined).

determinado

/deh-tehr-mee-NAH-doh//deteɾmiˈnaðo/

AdjectiveB2General
Use 'determinado' to describe someone who has a very strong will or ambition to achieve a specific goal.
A small determined hiker climbing a steep mountain peak.

Examples

Ella es una mujer muy determinada y valiente.

She is a very determined and brave woman.

Dio un paso determinado hacia la puerta.

He took a resolute step toward the door.

Using with 'Ser' vs 'Estar'

Use 'ser' if you are describing a person's character (they are a determined person). Use 'estar' if they have made up their mind about a specific goal right now.

resuelto

/reh-SWELL-toh//reˈswelto/

AdjectiveB1General
Use 'resuelto' to describe a person's character when they are quick to decide and act, showing decisiveness and grit.
A determined young person standing confidently at the top of a steep, small hill, having just reached the peak, showing resolve.

Examples

Su actitud resuelta impresionó a todos en la reunión.

His determined attitude impressed everyone at the meeting.

Necesitas ser más resuelta si quieres ser líder del equipo.

You need to be more resolute if you want to be the team leader.

Describing Character

When 'resuelto' describes a permanent personality trait (determined, decisive), you often use the verb 'ser' (to be): 'Ella es resuelta'.

firme

FEER-meh/ˈfiɾme/

AdjectiveB1General
Use 'firme' when 'determined' refers to holding a strong, unwavering opinion, stance, or conviction, especially in the face of opposition.
A young child stands tall with their hands on their hips, looking straight ahead with a focused and determined expression.

Examples

El director mantuvo una postura firme durante la negociación.

The director maintained a firm stance during the negotiation.

Necesitas ser firme con los niños para que te respeten.

You need to be firm with the children so they respect you.

Decidido vs. Determinado

Learners often confuse 'decidido' and 'determinado'. 'Decidido' usually implies a more immediate resolve or a personality trait of being decided, while 'determinado' often suggests a stronger, long-term ambition or will towards a specific goal.

Related Translations

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