Translation guide
The English word 'determined' describes a strong resolve to do something, often despite difficulties. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives, verbs, and set phrases that convey firm intention, unwavering spirit, or stubborn persistence. The best choice depends on whether you are describing a person's character, a decision, or a specific action.
彼女は成功しようと決心している。
She is determined to succeed.
彼は意志が強い人だ。
He is a determined person.
Describing a person who is resolute, unwavering, and committed to achieving something.
Literally 'have made up one's mind'. Used when someone has firmly decided on a course of action. Often implies a serious, life-changing decision.
彼は留学を決心している。
He is determined to study abroad.
Means 'strong-willed'. Describes a person's inherent character trait of having strong determination and self-discipline.
彼女は意志が強い人だ。
She is a determined person.
A formal, literary adjective meaning 'firm' or 'resolute'. Often used in written language or speeches to describe an unwavering attitude.
彼は断固たる決意を示した。
He showed a determined resolve.
A Buddhist term meaning 'unshakable' or 'never turning back'. Used to describe extreme determination, often in spiritual or martial contexts.
彼は不退転の決意で挑んだ。
He took on the challenge with unshakable determination.
Describing someone who refuses to give up, often with a nuance of stubbornness or doggedness.
Means 'tenacious' or 'persistent'. Emphasizes the ability to keep going without giving up, like a sticky substance. Positive connotation.
彼は粘り強い交渉で契約を勝ち取った。
He won the contract through determined negotiation.
Means 'persistent' but often with a negative nuance of being annoyingly stubborn or insistent. Use carefully.
Can sound negative; avoid when praising someone's determination.
Means 'stubborn'. Can be used for determination that borders on obstinacy. Often describes a person's fixed mindset.
彼は頑固な意志を持っている。
He has a determined will.
Expressing that a decision has been made and one is set on doing something.
A grammar pattern meaning 'intend to do'. Conveys a personal determination or plan. Use after the dictionary form of a verb.
絶対に合格するつもりだ。
I am determined to pass.
Means 'have decided that...'. Emphasizes a firm decision already made. Often used with a clause.
私は留学すると決めている。
I am determined to study abroad.
Literally 'have decided in my heart'. A more emotional, personal way to express determination.
彼は心に決めていることがある。
He has something he is determined to do.
Describing the manner in which someone acts with resolve, often visibly.
An adverb meaning 'resolutely' or 'with determination'. Describes acting in a decisive, unwavering manner.
彼は決然と立ち上がった。
He stood up with determination.
Means 'with resolve' or 'prepared for the worst'. Implies accepting potential negative consequences while being determined.
彼は覚悟を決めて真実を話した。
He told the truth with determination.
A colloquial phrase meaning 'to brace oneself' or 'to resolve oneself'. Literally 'tie up one's belly'. Used when facing a difficult situation with determination.
腹をくくって挑戦する。
I'll take on the challenge with determination.
Both describe determination, but 意志が強い focuses on inner willpower and self-control, while 粘り強い emphasizes persistent effort and not giving up over time.
彼は意志が強いから、誘惑に負けない。
He is strong-willed, so he won't give in to temptation.
彼女は粘り強いから、最後までやり遂げる。
She is tenacious, so she will see it through to the end.
Direct translations like '決定された' (decided) or '決定的な' (decisive) do not convey personal resolve. Use the expressions above to sound natural.
✕ 彼は決定された。
He is determined. (incorrect)
金曜日までにこのプロジェクトを終わらせるつもりだ。
I am determined to finish this project by Friday.
困難にもかかわらず、彼女は決心を曲げなかった。
Despite the difficulties, she remained determined.
彼のしつこい勧誘に根負けした。
I gave in to his determined sales pitch.