Preordain: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'praeordinare,' meaning 'to arrange beforehand.'
• It combines 'pre-' (before) and 'ordain' (to arrange or establish), hinting at early planning.
• The term has been in use since the late 15th century, reflecting its long-standing presence in the English language.

Philosophy

• In philosophical discussions, preordination raises questions about free will versus fate.
• Some religious traditions suggest that preordained events are part of a divine plan, influencing beliefs about destiny.
• Notable philosophies such as determinism explore the idea that all events, including human actions, are predetermined.

Literature

• Many classic novels feature characters grappling with the idea that their paths were preordained, adding depth to their journeys.
• Writers often use preordained elements to create tension by showing characters fighting against their fate.
• Books like 'Macbeth' by Shakespeare exemplify central themes of fate versus free will through prophecies that suggest preordination.

Religion

• Many religious doctrines, including Christianity, discuss the concept of preordainment in relation to salvation and divine plan.
• The belief in predestination, particularly in Reformed Christianity, expresses that God has already decided who will be saved.
• Islamic teachings also embrace a form of preordainment, emphasizing that all events are part of Allah's divine wisdom.

Psychology

• Studies suggest that belief in preordained outcomes can impact personal responsibility and motivation.
• Cognitive biases such as hindsight bias lead people to see past events as having been more predictable than they actually were, reinforcing the idea of preordination.
• Understanding preordained beliefs can help therapists address clients' feelings of helplessness or lack of control.

With rank #42,710, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.

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