DETERMINE BEFOREHAND is a phrase that means to decide on something before it happens. This phrase can be broken down into two crossword solutions: PREORDAIN (9 letters) and PREDETERMINE (12 letters). PREORDAIN is derived from the Latin word 'praeordinare' which means to arrange beforehand. PREDETERMINE is derived from the Latin word 'praedeterminare' which means to settle or decide beforehand. Both words are used to describe the same concept of deciding on something before it happens.