vastbesloten

Vastbesloten is a Dutch adjective meaning "firmly determined" or "resolute." It describes a person, decision, or action marked by unwavering commitment to a goal, even in the face of difficulties. In English, closest equivalents are resolute, determined, and steadfast.

Etymology: The term is a compound of vast (firm, fixed) and besloten (decided, resolved). Together they convey a decision that is held firmly and pursued with sustained effort. The noun form vastbeslotenheid denotes the quality of determination.

Usage: Vastbesloten is common in both formal and informal Dutch. It can describe individuals who pursue a goal with persistence, as in "Zij is vastbesloten om te slagen" (She is determined to succeed), or describe policies and campaigns carried out with unwavering intent. It is closely related to vastberaden, while onverzettelijk emphasizes unyielding steadiness.

Translations: English renderings include resolute and determined. In other Germanic languages, similar compounds exist (for example, German fest entschlossen). See also: vastbeslotenheid.