fate
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for fate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The power thought to control everything that happens, seen as unavoidable; also, the eventual outcome awaiting someone or something.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use fate
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin fatum, "that which has been spoken" — originally a prophecy or divine decree.
Full origin of fate →Frequently asked questions
What does “fate” mean?
The word “fate” means the power thought to control everything that happens, seen as unavoidable; also, the eventual outcome awaiting someone or something. In plain terms, the idea of destiny — an outcome that feels predetermined and beyond anyone's control.
How do you pronounce “fate”?
“Fate” is pronounced fayt (/feɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “fate” in a sentence?
Here is “fate” used in a sentence: “It seemed like fate that they met again after all those years.”
What part of speech is “fate”?
Depending on how it is used, “fate” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “fate” come from?
The word “fate” comes from Latin. From Latin fatum, "that which has been spoken" — originally a prophecy or divine decree.
Is “fate” a common word?
“Fate” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “fate” have?
“Fate” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the power thought to control everything that happens, seen as unavoidable; also, the eventual outcome awaiting someone or something.
What is the difference between fate and destiny?
Both refer to a power thought to shape what happens, but "fate" is often neutral or negative and stresses that the outcome is unavoidable, as in "left to their fate." "Destiny" usually carries a more positive or purposeful tone, suggesting what someone is meant to become.
What is the difference between fate and faith?
They sound similar but are unrelated in meaning. "Fate" is the power believed to control events, or the eventual outcome awaiting someone; "faith" is strong trust or belief, especially religious belief. You accept your fate, but you have faith in something.
Can fate be used as a verb?
Yes, though almost always in the passive form "be fated," meaning determined in advance as if by destiny. Something "fated to happen" is presented as unavoidable, as in "they were fated to meet."