destiny
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈɛstɪni/
US
- /ˈdɛstəni/
Description
- fate
- what is meant to happen
- set path
- life's course
Destiny isn't just about what will happen; it's the idea that some events are bound to happen, set in advance, or meant to be. It suggests something bigger than us is at play, guiding us along a specific path. Think of ancient Greek myths where heroes battled against their destiny—often unsuccessfully! While we make choices every day, some believe those choices are also part of our destiny.
You might say it was destiny when two people find true love, or that a tragic event was "sealed by destiny." It's a powerful word often used in stories about heroes, villains, and the grand sweep of history. Unlike luck, which is random, destiny feels like it has a purpose—like there's a reason things unfold as they do.
Destiny refers to the events that seem bound to happen in the future, often seen as fixed by fate or a higher power. It's more than just a prediction; it implies an inherent order and purpose to life, suggesting our lives are unfolding according to a plan—whether we know it or not.
The concept of destiny has been explored for centuries in philosophy, religion, and literature. Some believe that every individual has a unique destiny to fulfill, while others see it as a collective force shaping the course of history. Shakespeare famously wrote about destiny in Macbeth, where the witches' prophecies drive the tragic plot forward. "All our yesterdays have lighted fools / The way to dusty death," he writes, hinting at the inescapable nature of fate.
However, modern interpretations often blend destiny with free will. We might believe we have a general path laid out for us – perhaps a talent or calling – but still retain the freedom to make choices along the way that shape how that destiny unfolds.
You can use "destiny" in many contexts: describing a romantic connection ("It was destiny that brought them together"), a life's purpose ("He felt called by destiny to become a doctor"), or even a tragic outcome ("She couldn't escape her destiny"). It evokes a sense of inevitability, mystery, and the profound forces that shape our lives. So, while we navigate the world with our own agency, the idea of destiny reminds us there might be something larger at play—a hidden current guiding us toward an unknown future.
Examples
- 1
Belief
Many people believe in destiny, especially after a surprising coincidence.
- 2
Life purpose
He felt it was his destiny to become a teacher.
- 3
Story conflict
In the story, the young prince tries to escape his destiny.
- 4
Personal choice
Some people think we shape our own destiny through the choices we make.
- 5
Long training
After years of training, she believed she was finally fulfilling her destiny.
- 6
Taking action
He took his destiny into his own hands and started the company himself.
Phrase
take your destiny into your own hands
stop waiting and act for yourself
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- destinynoun