Predestine

To predestine means to determine or decide something in advance, especially by divine will or fate. It implies that the outcome of events, or an individual's destiny, is already fixed and cannot be altered by human actions. This concept often involves religious or philosophical beliefs about a preordained plan or purpose. The word suggests an inherent lack of free will, at least regarding the ultimate consequences of life's events, emphasizing a sense of inevitability. The focus can be on the fate of humanity, the salvation or damnation of souls, or even the unfolding of historical events.

Predestine meaning with examples

• The religious text argued that God had predestined who would enter heaven, meaning their salvation was determined before they were even born. This caused debates, as the belief was the individual had no free will in their salvation.
• Despite his efforts, the businessman felt predestined to fail. He believed fate was against him, no matter how hard he tried to succeed. This pessimistic attitude often shaped his decisions.
• Some historians analyze historical events from the perspective that they were predestined to occur, as if driven by an unseen hand. They study patterns.
• The novel explored a world where individual lives were predestined by a shadowy organization. This forced the characters to grapple with their loss of control.
• As a character in the play, she always felt predestined to take the throne due to her royal lineage, even though it caused her significant inner turmoil.