Fatalistic: meaning, definitions and examples

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fatalistic

 

[ ˌfeɪtəˈlɪstɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

outlook on life

Believing that all events are predetermined and therefore inevitable.

Synonyms

inevitable, predestined, predetermined.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fatalistic

Used when describing a belief that all events are predetermined and inevitable, often with a sense of helplessness or resignation.

  • She had a fatalistic view of life, believing that no matter what she did, her fate was already sealed.
  • His fatalistic attitude made it hard for him to stay motivated.
predetermined

Used to describe something that has been decided in advance, often by an external force or authority. Typically neutral in tone.

  • The outcomes of the experiment were predetermined by the initial conditions.
  • The itinerary for the trip was predetermined by the tour operator.
inevitable

Used to describe something that is certain to happen and cannot be avoided. This word doesn't necessarily carry a negative connotation.

  • As the dark clouds gathered, it became clear that rain was inevitable.
  • With the rise of e-commerce, the decline of traditional retail stores seemed inevitable.
predestined

Used to describe something believed to be determined by a divine power or fate. Often used in a religious or philosophical context.

  • They believed their love was predestined by the stars.
  • Many cultures have stories about heroes whose fates were predestined by the gods.

Examples of usage

  • He had a fatalistic attitude towards his future.
  • She accepted her fate with a fatalistic resignation.
Context #2 | Adjective

behavior

Showing resignation to the idea that events are beyond one's control.

Synonyms

accepting, resigned, stoic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fatalistic

Use this when someone believes everything is predetermined and accepts all negative outcomes as unavoidable.

  • He had a fatalistic view of life, believing nothing he did would change his fate
  • She sighed and, in a fatalistic tone, said they were all doomed
resigned

Use this when someone has given up resistance and accepts something reluctantly but without protest.

  • With a resigned sigh, he agreed to the additional work hours
  • She looked at the endless paperwork with a resigned expression
accepting

Use this when someone is willing to receive or acknowledge something without protest, whether it's a situation, suggestion, or another's behavior.

  • She was accepting of his quirks and never tried to change him
  • Despite the harsh feedback, he remained calm and accepting
stoic

Use this when someone shows endurance and strength, especially in the face of adversity or pain, and does not show their emotions.

  • Throughout the trial, he remained stoic, not showing any emotion
  • Her stoic demeanor helped her manage through the tough times

Examples of usage

  • His fatalistic behavior led him to take risks without considering the consequences.
  • The soldier's fatalistic approach to danger impressed his comrades.

Translations

Translations of the word "fatalistic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fatalista

🇮🇳 भाग्यवादी

🇩🇪 fatalistisch

🇮🇩 fatalistik

🇺🇦 фаталістичний

🇵🇱 fatalistyczny

🇯🇵 運命論的

🇫🇷 fataliste

🇪🇸 fatalista

🇹🇷 kaderci

🇰🇷 운명론적인

🇸🇦 قدري

🇨🇿 fatalistický

🇸🇰 fatalistický

🇨🇳 宿命论的

🇸🇮 fatalističen

🇮🇸 örlagatrúar

🇰🇿 фаталистік

🇬🇪 ფატალისტური

🇦🇿 fatalist

🇲🇽 fatalista

Etymology

The term 'fatalistic' originated from the Latin word 'fatalis' meaning 'of fate'. The concept of fatalism has been present in various philosophical and religious traditions throughout history, with the belief that events are predetermined and inevitable. This mindset has been explored in works of literature, psychology, and sociology, shaping perspectives on free will and determinism.

See also: fatalities, fatality, fatally, fatalness.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,074, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.