Predestined: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something is believed to be fixed or determined by fate ahead of time, often with a spiritual or philosophical nuance. It suggests a strong sense of inevitability.

• She felt her meeting with him was predestined from the start.
• In some religions, people believe their paths are predestined by a higher power.

Commonly used in everyday language to suggest that something is meant to happen, either romantically, professionally, or in other contexts. It is less formal and carries a slightly lighter connotation than 'predestined'.

• He seemed destined to become a great leader.
• They were destined to meet and fall in love.

This word is often used in religious or historical contexts, implying that something has been determined by a higher power or by historical precedents. It is more archaic and formal.

• Many believe that the victory was foreordained by ancient prophecy.
• The role of the king was foreordained, leaving little room for personal choice.

Used in more neutral or technical contexts, suggesting that something has been decided or arranged in advance, often by rules or plans rather than fate.

• The itinerary for the trip was predetermined by the travel agency.
• The outcome of the experiment was not predetermined.

Identical to the first entry for 'predestined.' This is a duplicate and can be ignored.

• Duplicate entry, no examples needed

Use in a religious or philosophical context where a higher power is believed to have predetermined events or outcomes. Often used in theological discussions.

• Many believers think that their actions are foreordained by a higher power
• The prophet declared that our paths were foreordained

Use when referring to something that has been decided or set in advance through planning or premeditation, not necessarily involving fate or a higher power.

• The schedule was predetermined weeks in advance
• His actions seemed predetermine by his upbringing

Similar to 'foreordain,' but can be used more broadly. Often implies some grand design or plan that was decided beforehand.

• The queen's ascent to the throne seemed preordained
• The preordained plan unfolded smoothly, without any obstacles