Foreknown: meaning, definitions and examples
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foreknown
[ fɔːrnoʊn ]
past knowledge
Foreknown refers to something that has been known or recognized in advance. This term is often used in theological, philosophical, and literary contexts to discuss events or truths perceived before they occur. The concept suggests a predetermined understanding or awareness of future occurrences. It is commonly used to describe divine prescience or human foresight, emphasizing the significance of prior knowledge in shaping outcomes.
Synonyms
anticipated, foretold, predestined, preordained.
Examples of usage
- Her foreknown abilities were evident from a young age.
- The foreknown consequences of their actions prompted a reconsideration.
- He acted based on foreknown risks associated with the investment.
Translations
Translations of the word "foreknown" in other languages:
🇵🇹 pré-conhecido
🇮🇳 पूर्वज्ञात
🇩🇪 vorher bekannt
🇮🇩 diketahui sebelumnya
🇺🇦 заздалегідь відомий
🇵🇱 wcześniej znany
🇯🇵 前もって知られた
🇫🇷 préalablement connu
🇪🇸 conocido de antemano
🇹🇷 önceden bilinen
🇰🇷 미리 알려진
🇸🇦 معروف مسبقًا
🇨🇿 předem známý
🇸🇰 vopred známy
🇨🇳 预先知道的
🇸🇮 vnaprej znan
🇮🇸 fyrirfram þekktur
🇰🇿 алдын ала белгілі
🇬🇪 წინასწარ ცნობილი
🇦🇿 əvvəlcədən məlum
🇲🇽 conocido de antemano
Etymology
The term 'foreknown' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'fore-', meaning 'before' or 'in advance', and 'known', which is the past participle of 'know'. The prefix 'fore-' has Old English origins, coming from 'foran', which means 'before' or 'in front of'. The word 'know', from Old English 'cnāwan', suggests a deep understanding or recognition that has been acquired. 'Foreknown' emerged in Middle English and has been used primarily in religious texts to describe God's omniscience. The implications of the word extend into various philosophical discussions regarding fate, free will, and the nature of time. As language evolved, 'foreknown' retained its significance, particularly in theological debates about predestination and divine foreknowledge, influencing literature and doctrinal discussions through the centuries.