a stroke of fate

USAGE SUMMARY

"a stroke of fate" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a sudden and unexpected event or occurrence that significantly impacts a person's life. Example: Winning the lottery was a stroke of fate that changed Sara's life forever.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

He is a ruthless gangster who gets what is coming to him; she is a woman turned by a stroke of fate from mousy waitress into tragic heroine defining herself resolutely and disastrously in extreme circumstances.

The Guardian - Film

Pozzi's death at the height of her sinful splendor was a stroke of fate so clearly in tune with the traditional imagery that it sent shivers of emotion through the whole country.

The New Yorker

Robert Levine observed: "By the time she was liberated from the favela by a stroke of fate, it was too late.

European Journal of Futures Research

Then, through a stroke of fate and a stranger's kindness, Natasha managed to put together a new wedding in two days.

BBC

The price of electricity is not a stroke of fate but a sign of scarcity that admonishes us to adopt efficient consumer behavior, which can effectively limit the cost burden.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

When a stroke of fate recently touched the lives of two girls, that's exactly what happened.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Then, a stroke of luck, fate or prayers being answered.

Huffington Post

Hearts and souls brought together by the hand of God, by a stroke of fortune, or by a twist of fate -- doesn't matter.

Huffington Post

What a stroke of luck.

The Guardian - Music

It was a stroke of luck.

The New York Times

Then a stroke of luck.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a stroke of fate" to describe an event that significantly alters someone's life unexpectedly, suggesting that external forces played a role.

Common error

While "a stroke of fate" can add dramatic flair, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Consider simpler alternatives like "coincidence" or "chance" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stroke of fate" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It acts as a subject or object within a sentence to denote an event or occurrence believed to be influenced by destiny or chance. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes a significant, often unexpected event that changes a person's life.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a stroke of fate" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant, often unexpected event attributed to destiny or chance. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. While primarily found in news and media contexts, its neutral register makes it appropriate for various writing styles. Related phrases include "an act of destiny" and "a twist of fate", offering subtle variations in meaning. Remember to use it judiciously, particularly in informal settings, and be aware of the subtle difference with similar expressions like "a stroke of luck". The authoritative sources where the examples have been taken from are The New York Times, The Guardian, Huffington Post, The New Yorker and BBC.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fateful event

This option emphasizes the significance and potential consequences of the occurrence.

a matter of destiny

The change indicates that there is no accidental aspect.

an act of destiny

This alternative emphasizes the role of predetermined events in shaping outcomes, differing from the original phrase's focus on chance.

a twist of destiny

This alternative highlights an unexpected change in someone's predetermined events in life.

a quirk of destiny

This option emphasizes the strange or unusual nature of the event.

a remarkable coincidence

This phrase replaces the idea of destiny with a surprising alignment of events.

a chance occurrence

This substitutes destiny with the idea of random possibility.

an instance of serendipity

This highlights the fortunate and accidental nature of the event.

a stroke of fortune

This option describes a fortunate event, differing from the original phrase by its exclusive positive connotation.

an unlucky break

This phrase focuses exclusively on the negative aspect, describing an unlucky event.

FAQs

How can "a stroke of fate" be used in a sentence?

You can use "a stroke of fate" to describe a significant, often unexpected event that changes a person's life. For example, "Winning the lottery was "a stroke of fate" that allowed him to retire early."

What are some alternatives to "a stroke of fate"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a twist of fate", "a remarkable coincidence", or "a fateful event".

Is "a stroke of fate" similar to "a stroke of luck"?

While both phrases describe unexpected events, "a stroke of fate" implies a more significant and potentially life-altering impact, whereas "a stroke of luck" typically refers to a fortunate but less impactful occurrence.

What does "a stroke of fate" imply about the event's cause?

"A stroke of fate" suggests that the event was caused by forces beyond human control, such as destiny or chance, rather than by deliberate action or planning.