divine will

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "divine will" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing religious beliefs, fate, or the idea that a higher power has a plan or intention for the world or individuals. Example: "Many believe that the events of their lives unfold according to divine will, guiding them toward their true purpose."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But how do we know the divine will?

The Guardian

Their settlements became the fulfillment of a biblical prophecy, guided by divine will.

The New York Times - Books

Between divine will and American know-how, we have everything under control.

The New York Times

The divine will forever tantalize and elude the imaginations and skills of merely human artists.

The New York Times - Arts

Phillips says that Bush has spoken of himself as an instrument of divine will.

The New Yorker

Look closely, describe precisely, and you will demonstrate a Divine will.

The Guardian - Books

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine will offer guided tours that will include a look at its Firefighter's Memorial.

The New York Times

Thus, I soon came to reject the idea of the supremacy of the divine will as also hideous and evil".

The New Yorker

A whole range of historical outlooks, from belief in divine will to scientific determinism, have no time for it.

The New Yorker

Lincoln could not look to religion or the divine will to determine how to deal with slavery.

The New York Times

According to a statement in Fons vitae, matter derives from the divine essence, whereas form derives from the divine will.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "divine will", ensure the context clearly relates to religious or philosophical discussions. Avoid using it in contexts where a more secular term like 'fate' or 'destiny' would be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "divine will" to justify personal preferences or biases. It is crucial to distinguish between genuine belief and using the concept to rationalize subjective viewpoints.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "divine will" typically functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples show it used to describe a guiding force or a justification for events. It embodies a belief in a higher power's influence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "divine will" is a commonly used noun phrase that expresses a belief in a higher power's predetermined plan or intention, as validated by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and encyclopedia sources, it carries a formal to neutral register, often used to explain events or justify actions within religious or philosophical contexts. When writing, it's essential to use the phrase accurately, ensuring the context relates to religious or philosophical discussions and avoiding its use to justify personal biases. Remember, alternatives like "God's plan" or "providence" can provide similar meanings, depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

God's plan

Emphasizes a preordained scheme attributed to God.

God's design

Highlights the purposeful arrangement of events by God.

The Almighty's purpose

Stresses the intention of an omnipotent being.

Providence

Highlights the protective care of God or nature.

Preordained fate

Combines the concepts of predestination and destiny.

Fate

Focuses on the inevitable and predetermined course of events.

Destiny

Stresses the predetermined course of one's life.

Higher power's intention

Refers to the purpose or aim of a supernatural force.

Sacred intention

Focuses on a holy purpose or aim.

Heavenly decree

Emphasizes an official order from a divine source.

FAQs

How can I use "divine will" in a sentence?

You can use "divine will" to describe events or circumstances believed to be guided by a higher power. For example, "Many believe their lives are unfolding according to "divine will"."

What are some alternatives to "divine will"?

Alternatives include "God's plan", "providence", or "fate", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "divine will" in a non-religious context?

While primarily used in religious contexts, "divine will" can be used metaphorically in philosophical discussions about determinism or higher purpose. However, be mindful of your audience and the potential for misinterpretation.

How does "divine will" differ from fate or destiny?

"Divine will" specifically implies the intention of a divine being, whereas "fate" and "destiny" can refer to predetermined outcomes without necessarily attributing them to a deity.