What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
determine
Example
We need to determine the cause of the problem before we can fix it. [determine: verb]
Example
The committee will determine the best course of action based on the data presented. [determine: verb]
Example
The price of the product is determined by supply and demand. [determined: past participle]
establish
Example
The company plans to establish a new branch in the city. [establish: verb]
Example
The study aims to establish a link between diet and health. [establish: verb]
Example
The artist has established herself as a leading figure in the contemporary art scene. [established: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Determine is more commonly used than establish in everyday language. Determine is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while establish is more specific and often used in professional or specialized settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between determine and establish?
Both determine and establish can be used in formal or professional contexts, but establish may have a slightly more formal or business-like connotation due to its association with entrepreneurship and innovation.