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Fateful Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fateful

[ˈfeɪtfəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

significant event

The term 'fateful' describes events or moments that have significant and often irreversible consequences. It is commonly used to refer to situations where a critical decision leads to a defining outcome, often with a sense of doom or destiny involved. The word conveys a sense of an unavoidable fate and is often associated with turning points in narratives or lives.

Synonyms

crucial, decisive, momentous, portentous.

Examples of usage

  • The fateful decision changed their lives forever.
  • It was a fateful moment in history that no one could foresee.
  • His fateful encounter led to unforeseen consequences.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Fateful moments are often highlighted in classic literature, like Shakespeare's tragedies, where characters face destiny.
  • In George Orwell's '1984,' decisions made by the protagonist are filled with fateful implications, showcasing the weight of choice.
  • Fateful encounters in stories often lead to pivotal plot twists, shaping the entire narrative.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people often overestimate the impact of single events, believing they are more fateful than they truly are.
  • The concept of 'fateful decisions' can lead to stress, as individuals worry about making the wrong choice.
  • Notably, people who believe in fate may feel less agency in their choices, attributing outcomes to destiny rather than personal actions.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, a 'fateful moment' often refers to a character's choice that irrevocably changes their life, such as in 'The Matrix.'
  • Song lyrics frequently explore themes of fate, emphasizing the idea that moments can be pivotal and transformative.
  • Popular games often include choices labeled as 'fateful,' where player decisions lead to vastly different endings.

Origin of 'fateful'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'fate,' which means the events that will happen to someone in the future.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the late 14th century, often used in contexts of destiny and fortune.
  • Related words include 'fatal,' which refers to something causing death and has a similar sense of seriousness.

The word 'fateful' originates from the Middle English term 'fate', which itself comes from the Latin word 'fatum' meaning 'that which has been spoken', or 'destiny'. This term is related to the concept of fate being an inevitable and often predetermined outcome. The prefix '-ful' adds the meaning of being full of or characterized by, thus 'fateful' implies a fullness of fate or destiny. The usage of 'fateful' has evolved through literature and colloquial speech, often employed to emphasize the gravity and importance of pivotal moments in storytelling and real life. Its resonance in both tragic and heroic contexts highlights human experiences tied to fate, choice, and consequence. Over the centuries, 'fateful' has maintained a strong presence in both literary and conversational English, reflecting the ongoing fascination with the themes of destiny and pivotal life choices.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,206, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.