Preordain Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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.

Main points about word origin

• 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.

The word 'preordain' originated from the Middle English word 'preordenen', which in turn came from the Old French word 'preordener', ultimately derived from the Latin word 'praedestinare' meaning 'to appoint or determine beforehand'. The concept of preordination has been a topic of philosophical and theological debate throughout history, particularly in discussions of fate, free will, and divine providence.

See also: foreordain, foreordained, ordain, preordained.

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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