MEANING
1. A factor that influences or helps determine the form, nature, or outcome of something.
2. A value calculated from a square matrix that helps describe properties of the corresponding linear system.
Use it for
identifying a factor that shapes an outcome; distinguishing influences on an outcome from the outcome itself; discussing whether a proposed cause is supported by the research designNames a factor treated as shaping an outcome, while allowing the writer to specify rather than assume its causal role. Academic functions: Causation / Relationships, Research / Methodology.
Words that belong together
- a key determinant of
- social determinants of health
- determinants of investment
On the page
Access to transport may be an important determinant of employment opportunities.
The analysis examines institutional trust as a determinant of policy acceptance.
A nonzero determinant indicates that the square matrix is invertible.
The appendix calculates the determinant before solving the simultaneous equations.
Nearby words
Word forms
- Base
- determinant
Usage notes
Usually a countable noun: determinant, determinants. Less commonly an adjective meaning influencing or determining. Mathematical noun use is also countable. Register: formal. Commonness: moderately common (qualitative editorial estimate, informed by dictionaries/corpus).
Practice this word in a sentenceYour margin notes
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