determinism
/dɪˈtɜː.mɪ.nɪ.zəm/ IELTSAcademic
noun
The idea that every event is caused by earlier events and conditions, so outcomes are fixed in advance. In philosophy, it means free choice may be limited or impossible.
- He studied determinism in his philosophy class.
- The debate was about fate and determinism.
- Determinism says causes shape every result.
Adinary Nuance
Determinism is different from fate and destiny. Those words suggest a planned or mysterious end, while determinism focuses on cause and effect. It is also more specific than inevitability, which only means something will happen. Writers use determinism in philosophy, science, and serious discussion.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- thuyết định mệnh
- Spanish
- determinismo
- Chinese
- 决定论
- Japanese
- 決定論
- Korean
- 결정론
Etymology
Determinism came into English in the 19th century from French déterminisme, based on déterminer, meaning “to determine.” The word reflects the idea that causes decide results.
Common phrases
philosophical determinismcausal determinismhard determinismbiological determinism
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is determinism a formal word?
- Yes. It is mainly used in philosophy, science, and academic writing.
- What is the difference between determinism and fate?
- Determinism explains results through causes. Fate suggests a fixed future by chance or higher power.
- Can I use determinism in everyday speech?
- You can, but it sounds serious and academic. People use it most in thoughtful discussion.
- Is determinism the opposite of free will?
- Often, yes. Many debates compare determinism with free will.