Note: The translation for this entry is currently under quality review. Some content is temporarily displayed in English only.
fate
Fate carries a heavy, inevitable weight. It suggests an external force—be it divine, cosmic, or systemic—that has already written the conclusion of a story, leaving human agency powerless.
Unlike "destiny," which often feels aspirational, positive, or like a calling one is meant to fulfill, fate frequently leans toward the tragic or the grim. It is the cold machinery of the universe moving toward a fixed point.
When used as an outcome (e.g., "a cruel fate"), it focuses on the finality of the result, often implying that the end was unavoidable and perhaps unfair. As a verb, it describes a structural or predetermined flaw that guarantees failure.
Uncountable when referring to the cosmic force of destiny that governs the universe ('Fate is a cruel mistress'). Countable when referring to the specific end or final outcome for an individual ('The sailors met a tragic fate'.)
💬Casual Conversation
literally ran into my ex at the cafe. it's fate.
it's not fate, you both just live on the same block. get a grip.
Meanings
The development of events beyond a person's control, regarded as determined by a supernatural power.
He believed it was his fate to become a teacher.
Examples
She believed it was her fate to meet him in Paris.
The ancient city suffered a tragic fate during the war.
The lack of funding fated the startup to collapse.