determined by fate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "determined by fate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the idea that events or outcomes are influenced by destiny or a predetermined course of events. Example: "She believed that her success was determined by fate, as if her path had been laid out for her from the beginning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

The Stoics believed in world cycles determined by fate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It's hard to protect yourself against that kind of thing — it's all determined by fate.

The New Yorker

(Ibsen didn't write tragedies — his characters' lives aren't determined by fate — but he understands the value of the disinterested voice).

The New Yorker

And, in a happy omen for those who believe these things are determined by fate rather than on the pitch, two of those sides, Real and Valencia, went on to reach the final.

The Guardian - Sport

An external health locus of control refers to the belief that one's outcome after injury or surgery is under the control of powerful others or is determined by fate, luck, or chance.

Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic & Related Surgery

One surviving chapter of the Book of Laws (De fato) argues, both from the nature of causation and from the assumption that the gods have foreknowledge, that all events are determined by fate.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

But in an age where education is less determined by our fate, why is it still so difficult to obtain?

Huffington Post

This cell lineage is determined by the fate pattern [333 33].

BMC Systems Biology

Winning Monopoly is "definitely mostly luck" with a player's fate determined by the roll of the dice, Shaw said.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Stand back, and they seem determined by the whims of fate.

The New York Times - Arts

Maybe it's fitting that a woman who first sashayed into the national consciousness with an equation — "two for the price of one" — may have her fate determined by the arithmetic of dynasty.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "determined by fate" to convey a sense of inevitability or lack of control over events. This phrase is appropriate when discussing philosophical concepts, narratives with predetermined outcomes, or situations where external forces are perceived to be in control.

Common error

Avoid using "determined by fate" as an excuse to dismiss personal responsibility or agency. While the phrase can be useful for exploring themes of destiny, be mindful of oversimplifying complex situations where human actions and choices also play a significant role.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "determined by fate" functions as a modifier, typically describing a noun or situation to indicate that its outcome is controlled by an external, predetermined force. As evidenced by Ludwig, it suggests a lack of human agency.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Academia

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "determined by fate" is grammatically sound and used to convey the idea that outcomes are predestined and beyond human control. As Ludwig confirms, it is most commonly found in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts. While generally neutral in register, its use can add a sense of philosophical depth or inevitability to discussions. When writing, it's crucial to use this phrase thoughtfully, avoiding its overuse as an excuse for inaction and being aware of its implications regarding personal responsibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

predestined by destiny

This alternative emphasizes the idea of a predetermined course of events or destiny.

ordained by destiny

Similar to 'predestined', it conveys a sense of divine or higher power dictating events.

governed by providence

This phrase highlights the role of a divine entity in directing outcomes.

subject to destiny

Focuses on the idea of being under the control or influence of fate.

in the hands of fate

Emphasizes the lack of control and the surrender to destiny.

controlled by destiny

This alternative directly states that destiny is in control.

fated to be

Implies that an outcome is inevitable and preordained.

written in the stars

A more poetic way of expressing that something is predestined.

inescapably destined

Highlights the unavoidable nature of a preordained future.

predetermined outcome

This alternative reduces the focus to an end result fixed in advance.

FAQs

How can I use "determined by fate" in a sentence?

You can use "determined by fate" to describe situations where outcomes seem inevitable or preordained. For instance, "The rise and fall of empires, some believe, is "determined by fate"".

What are some alternatives to "determined by fate"?

Some alternatives include "predestined", "ordained", or "governed by providence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say something is "determined by fate"?

Yes, "determined by fate" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase. However, it's important to consider the context and whether the concept of fate aligns with the overall message.

What's the difference between "determined by fate" and "determined by destiny"?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, "fate" generally refers to an impersonal force, while "destiny" can imply a more purposeful or directed course. Both "determined by fate" and "determined by destiny" suggest a lack of control, but the latter might evoke a sense of higher purpose.