Synonyms of fateful

fateful

adjective

ˈfāt-fəl 

as in disastrous

bringing about ruin or misfortune

a fateful encounter with a confidence man that they would long regret

Synonyms & Similar Words

• disastrous
• fatal
• unfortunate
• catastrophic
• calamitous
• damning
• destructive
• ruinous
• apocalyptic
• adverse
• cataclysmal
• ill-fated
• luckless
• hapless
• damaging
• pernicious
• injurious
• harmful
• ill-starred
• detrimental
• baneful
• deleterious
• evil
• prejudicial
• hurtful
• noxious
• baleful
• ill

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• fortuitous
• happy
• fortunate
• lucky
• providential
• golden
• auspicious
• promising
• fair
• fluky
• propitious
• hopeful
• bright
• optimistic
• encouraging
• rosy
• heartening
• upbeat
• rose-colored

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective fateful differ from other similar words?

The words ominous and portentous are common synonyms of fateful. While all three words mean "having a menacing or threatening aspect," fateful suggests being of momentous or decisive importance.

the fateful conference that led to war

Where would ominous be a reasonable alternative to fateful?

Although the words ominous and fateful have much in common, ominous implies having a menacing, alarming character foreshadowing evil or disaster.

ominous rumblings from the volcano

When is it sensible to use portentous instead of fateful?

While the synonyms portentous and fateful are close in meaning, portentous suggests being frighteningly big or impressive but now seldom definitely connotes forewarning of calamity.

an eerie and portentous stillness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of fateful

Guys’ inability to fully deliver for Dean is explored in trenchant lyrics that seem to be exploring fateful realizations about so-so situationships in real time. — Chris Willman, Variety, 17 July 2026

Reports emerged over the weekend that Paul Rees, who was sat in the passenger seat on that fateful day in 2022, is seeking up to £150,000 from BBC Studios over claims of personal injury. — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 13 July 2026

Solid performances from the supporting cast include Lucas Prizant as Hamlet’s loyal friend, Horatio, and Brenna DiStasio as Laertes, his opponent in the finale’s fateful duel. — Emily McClanathan, Chicago Tribune, 9 July 2026

An interception at the airport, or had any of the other fateful chances of 9/11 happened a slightly different way. — David Frum, The Atlantic, 8 July 2026