fate 1 of 2

Definition of fatenext
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fate

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word fate distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of fate are destiny, doom, lot, and portion. While all these words mean "a predetermined state or end," fate implies an inevitable and usually an adverse outcome.

the fate of the submarine is unknown

When is it sensible to use destiny instead of fate?

The words destiny and fate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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

Where would doom be a reasonable alternative to fate?

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

if the rebellion fails, his doom is certain

How do lot and portion relate to one another, in the sense of fate?

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

it was her lot to die childless

In what contexts can portion take the place of fate?

While in some cases nearly identical to fate, 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 fate
Noun
The final decision on Khan’s fate is now up to the Assembly of States Parties, which oversees the ICC. ABC News, 9 June 2026 The regulation of our environment; the presence of chemicals both intentionally and unwittingly in our food, water, air, and land; the ecological fate of all living creatures, and of the earth itself—all these dilemmas and conundrums find urgent expression in Carson’s work. Literary Hub, 8 June 2026
Verb
According to its logline, the eighth and final season will be rooted in the difficult choices and fate each cast member will have to face, some life or death, but will ultimately reflect legacy, conflict, joy, and pain. Dominique Fluker, Forbes.com, 20 May 2026 Bannister presents five random strangers on a train, one of whom is fated to die in the next five minutes. Diya Chacko, Oc Register, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for fate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fate
Noun
  • In Selma, and elsewhere, the former president often spoke about collectively shaping destiny.
    Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 4 June 2026
  • He-Man, led by the Sword of Power to his homeworld-saving destiny.
    Jack Smart, PEOPLE, 3 June 2026
Noun
  • The outcome of Tuesday's Democratic primary represents the latest example of the divide among Democrats over the party's direction.
    Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 3 June 2026
  • The state has a history of substantial vote updates after Election Day that can sometimes shift the outcome of elections as late-arriving mail and drop-off votes are counted.
    ABC News, ABC News, 3 June 2026
Noun
  • Beyond the question of how an angrite-spawning protoplanet could have arisen so early on, the details of its demise are unknown.
    Jenna Ahart, Scientific American, 9 June 2026
  • Poor Drainage Heavy clay and soggy soil can suffocate hydrangea roots and lead to root rot, eventually ending with the demise of your plant.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 7 June 2026
Verb
  • Originally destined for slaughter during the Eid al-Adha festival, the 1,500-pound animal was seized by authorities, spared sacrifice and relocated to the capital’s zoo, where keepers lavish it with care.
    al Emrun Garjon, Los Angeles Times, 3 June 2026
  • The final season of creator Christopher Storer’s show is a slam dunk for fans and destined to be the subject of a thousand think pieces.
    David Faris, TheWeek, 3 June 2026
Noun
  • In the 21st century, Carson remains a cultural touchstone, not only spurring generations of people in the global environmental movement but also inspiring a deep well of nature writing and thinking as a result of her works on the sea.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 8 June 2026
  • The chance of advancing from the group phase isn’t far-fetched, with a diverse squad of new and seasoned players and recent results that offer glimmers of hope for a run in the tournament.
    Jim Sciutto, CNN Money, 8 June 2026
Noun
  • Emergency responders say the toddler's death is a tragic reminder of how dangerous the water is, especially at this time of year when peak water flows are being recorded.
    Dillon Thomas, CBS News, 4 June 2026
  • Leach's final coaching stop was at Mississippi State before his death in December 2022.
    Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 4 June 2026
Verb
  • Parents hear so much about AI these days—how their kids are using it in the classroom and to socialize, even considering it a friend in some cases—and one of the most prominent debates going on right now is whether AI is here to save humanity, or doom it.
    Staff Author, Parents, 7 June 2026
  • The researchers were dealing mostly in speculation — the gene modification technology that scientists could use to doom the screwworm is untested at scale and not ready to be deployed.
    Evan Bush, NBC news, 7 June 2026
Noun
  • This is because, as the authors of the study note, people holding grudges tend to feel a sense of righteousness surrounding their hurt, as well as with their experience of the resultant grudge itself.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026
  • Both aircraft were destroyed in the resultant crash with fire causing the death of four crew members on both planes.
    Jerry Shnay, Chicago Tribune, 1 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Fate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fate. Accessed 10 Jun. 2026.

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