bestämmande

Bestämmande is a Swedish term derived from the verb bestämma, meaning to determine or decide. It functions as both a noun and an adjective and denotes something that determines, decides, or has decisive influence in a given situation.

In everyday and academic usage, bestämmande describes factors, powers, or conditions that shape outcomes. Common collocations include bestämmande faktor (a determining factor) and bestämmande makt (the dominant or controlling power). The word emphasizes that a particular element has the principal role in driving results or decisions. It is frequently used in analyses within social sciences, economics, and politics to identify the variables or actors with decisive influence.

The term can be applied to various constructs, such as policies, interests, or circumstances, to indicate their leading or controlling importance. Phrases like bestämmande synpunkt (a decisive point of view) or bestämmande betydelse (decisive significance) illustrate its flexible use in describing influence.

Etymologically, bestämmande is formed with the -ande suffix from the verb bestämma, aligning with similar Swedish participial adjectives that express ongoing or inherent qualities. In many contexts, it operates as a neutral descriptor rather than a value judgment, though its tone can suggest predominance or control.

See also: determinism, determinant, power, influence, bestämma.