Foreordained Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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foreordained
[fษหหษหdeษชnd ]
Definition
predestined
Predetermined or decided in advance, often in a religious or spiritual context.
Synonyms
predestined, predetermined, preordained.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| foreordained |
Best used in religious or philosophical contexts to indicate that an event or outcome has been destined to happen by a higher power.
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Examples of usage
- It was a foreordained event that had been prophesied centuries ago.
- The outcome of the battle seemed foreordained, as if it had been written in the stars.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- In philosophical discussions, 'foreordained' often relates to concepts of determinism, where all events are seen as predetermined.
- The idea raises questions about free will: if something is foreordained, do people truly have the power to change their fate?
- Various philosophical systems, including some interpretations of Christianity, embrace the notion that human lives are part of a divine plan.
Literature
- Many classic literary works explore the notion of foreordained events, often leading characters to grapple with their fates.
- Shakespeareโs plays frequently reflect themes of destiny and preordained outcomes, showing characters caught in a web of fate.
- In contemporary literature, authors play with the tension between choice and fate, questioning whether characters are truly in control.
Science
- In genetics, the debate over whether traits are 'foreordained' by DNA involves discussions of nature versus nurture.
- Astrobiology explores the idea that life in the universe might be 'foreordained' based on the laws of physics and chemistry, leading to life in similar conditions across planets.
- The predictability of outcomes in scientific experiments may sometimes feel 'foreordained' based on established laws, yet surprises can emerge.
Pop Culture
- In movies and TV shows, characters often confront situations that seem 'foreordained', like prophecies predicting their future.
- The concept of 'fate' versus 'free will' is a popular theme in superhero stories, where characters deal with powers that suggest their path is predetermined.
- The phrase 'life is what you make it' contrasts with 'foreordained destinies', providing a cultural tension in narratives about personal choice.
Origin of 'foreordained'
Main points about word origin
- The word is derived from the combination of 'fore', meaning 'before', and 'ordain', which comes from Latin 'ordinare', meaning 'to arrange'.
- It has roots in religious contexts, often indicating that events or destinies are predetermined by a divine power.
- The word has been in use since the 15th century, reflecting its longstanding association with fate and predestination.
The word 'foreordained' is derived from the combination of 'fore-' meaning before and 'ordain' meaning to decree or order. The concept of foreordination or predestination has been a significant aspect of various religious beliefs and philosophies throughout history. It is often associated with the idea that certain events or outcomes are already determined by a higher power or fate, leading to debates about free will and destiny.
See also: foreordain, ordain, preordain, preordained.