What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
determinant
Example
The determinant of the equation was the number of people attending the event. [determinant: noun]
Example
The determinant matrix had a unique solution. [determinant: adjective]
Example
She was a determinant leader who always made the right decisions. [determinant: noun]
cause
Example
The cause of the accident was the driver's negligence. [cause: noun]
Example
The storm caused a power outage in the city. [cause: verb]
Example
She dedicated her life to the cause of women's rights. [cause: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cause is more commonly used than determinant in everyday language. Cause is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while determinant is less common and refers to a specific type of factor or element.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between determinant and cause?
Determinant is more formal than cause, which is more commonly used in everyday language and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.