their fate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "their fate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the outcome or destiny of individuals or groups, often in a narrative or philosophical context. Example: "The characters in the story were unaware of their fate until the very end, when the truth was finally revealed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Their fate?

The New York Times

Their fate remains unknown.

Independent

Their fate, my fate.

Independent

Some accepted their fate.

The Economist

Look at their fate.

The New Yorker

Now their fate reflects his.

The Economist

Their fate remains unresolved.

The New York Times

That was their fate.

The Guardian - Opinion

And what of books and their fate?

The New Yorker

'To guide people to their fate.

The New Yorker

But Ms Sánchez has escaped their fate.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "their fate", consider the tone you want to convey. It can range from neutral to dramatic, depending on the context. For instance, in news reports, it might be used neutrally, while in literature, it might carry a sense of foreboding.

Common error

Avoid using "their fate" in everyday conversation. It's a more formal and weighty phrase, so using it in casual contexts can sound overly dramatic or out of place. Opt for simpler alternatives like "what will happen to them" or "their future".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "their fate" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It refers to the predetermined or inevitable course of events concerning a group of people or entities. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "their fate" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase that refers to the eventual outcome or destiny of a group. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is considered correct and appropriate in various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and encyclopedias. While alternatives like ""their destiny"" or ""their future"" exist, "their fate" often implies a sense of inevitability or significance. It's best suited for formal writing and contexts where a more serious or thoughtful tone is desired. Overusing it in casual conversation may sound overly dramatic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

their destiny

Implies a predetermined course of events, often with a sense of grandeur or inevitability.

their ultimate end

Specifically refers to the final outcome or conclusion, often in a dramatic or definitive way.

what becomes of them

Focuses on the process and consequence of something happening to them, rather than the final state.

how things will turn out for them

Focuses on the unfolding of events and the resulting situation.

their future

Emphasizes the time ahead and the possibilities it holds, rather than the ultimate outcome.

what the future holds for them

Directly references the future and its potential impact on their lives.

their fortune

Emphasizes the role of chance or luck in determining their outcome.

what lies in store for them

Highlights the uncertainty and potential surprises of the future.

their final chapter

Suggests that the end will be similar to a chapter of a book.

their lot in life

Refers to the circumstances and experiences that have been assigned to them, often suggesting a sense of resignation or acceptance.

FAQs

How can I use "their fate" in a sentence?

You can use "their fate" to refer to the eventual outcome or destiny of a group. For example, "The refugees were uncertain about their fate as they waited at the border."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "their fate"?

Alternatives to "their fate" include "their destiny", "their future", or "what becomes of them", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "their fate" in all types of writing?

While grammatically correct, "their fate" is more suited to formal writing, narratives, or contexts where you want to emphasize the significance or inevitability of an outcome. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "their fate" and "their destiny"?

"Their fate" generally refers to the eventual outcome or what will happen, while "their destiny" implies a predetermined or inevitable course of events, often with a sense of purpose or higher power involved.