Synonym Chooser

How is the word destiny distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of destiny are doom, fate, lot, and portion. While all these words mean "a predetermined state or end," destiny implies something foreordained and often suggests a great or noble course or end.

the country's destiny to be a model of liberty to the world

When could doom be used to replace destiny?

The synonyms doom and destiny are sometimes interchangeable, but doom distinctly implies a grim or calamitous fate.

if the rebellion fails, his doom is certain

When is it sensible to use fate instead of destiny?

While the synonyms fate and destiny are close in meaning, fate implies an inevitable and usually an adverse outcome.

the fate of the submarine is unknown

How are the words lot and portion related as synonyms of destiny?

Both lot and portion imply a distribution by fate or destiny, lot suggesting blind chance.

it was her lot to die childless

When is portion a more appropriate choice than destiny?

The words portion and destiny are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, portion implies the apportioning of good and evil.

remorse was his daily portion

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of destiny For some, the answer lies somewhere in the middle, with cosmic destiny and personal decision being both interchangeable and inseparable. Literary Hub, 8 Oct. 2025 Culture, in the long run, is destiny. Big Think, 7 Oct. 2025 Van Kaizen’s model is demanding and best suited for those with an entrepreneurial streak who want to control their own destinies. Matt Emma, USA Today, 6 Oct. 2025 As destiny would have it, a trade-deadline acquisition, who entered the game as a defensive replacement, helped Schlittler complete his stat line. Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 3 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for destiny
Recent Examples of Synonyms for destiny
fate
Noun
  • With Shildt gone, the fate of hitting coach Victor Rodriguez, 64, remains to be seen.
    Dennis Lin, New York Times, 15 Oct. 2025
  • However, there is growing Israeli anger over the fate of the hostages who did not survive captivity and delays in the return of their remains.
    Barney Henderson, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Destiny.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/destiny. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on destiny

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