Karma: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the idea that a person's actions in life will influence their future, either in this life or in future lives according to some religions, especially in Hinduism and Buddhism.

• Helping others will bring you good karma.
• She believes in karma, that's why she always tries to do good deeds.

Similar to destiny but can be used in both positive and negative contexts. It often implies an inevitable outcome that is beyond human control.

• No one can escape their fate.
• It was fate that led them to that particular place at that particular time.

Often refers to a predetermined course of events that is believed to be beyond human control. It is generally considered neutral or positive, often implying something significant or positive will happen.

• It was his destiny to become a great leader.
• They believed it was their destiny to meet and fall in love.

Has a negative connotation and is used to describe punishment that is considered to be morally right and fully deserved, often in response to wrong-doing.

• He feared retribution for his crimes.
• The community sought retribution against those who had wronged them.

Used in situations involving the belief that actions have consequences, particularly in moral or spiritual contexts.

• Karma will eventually catch up with those who mistreat others
• She believes that helping others will bring good karma into her life

Used to describe unexpected outcomes, often positive, that are assumed to be due to chance rather than deliberate actions.

• He had amazing luck finding a parking space right in front of the store
• Her bad luck continued when she missed the bus

Used when referring to good or bad outcomes, often linked to destiny or significant events. Also used to describe wealth.

• He made a fortune in the stock market
• It was her good fortune to find a mentor who supported her career

Used when referring to the probability or possibility of something happening, often without intention or planning.

• There is a chance of rain tomorrow
• By chance, they ran into each other at the grocery store

Use in situations involving the concept of cause and effect in moral and ethical terms, often implying that one’s actions will have future consequences. This term is often used in philosophical or spiritual discussions.

• She believes that helping others will generate good karma.
• He thinks that all his bad luck is due to bad karma from his past.

Casual, informal context referring to the general feeling, mood, or atmosphere of a place or situation. It's often used in social or cultural discussions to describe the ambiance or emotional atmosphere.

• The cafe has a chill vibe.
• I don't get a good vibe from that guy.

Appropriate when discussing the perceived energy field surrounding a person or place, often implying a sense of mood or atmosphere. This term is commonly used in spiritual, metaphysical, or personal development contexts.

• The healer said he could see a bright aura around her.
• The old house had a mysterious aura that intrigued everyone.

Use in a broad sense to refer to vitality, enthusiasm, or physical and mental power. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts, including scientific discussions as well as everyday conversations.

• I need more energy to finish this project.
• The motivational speaker had high energy and kept the audience engaged.