Synonyms of destiny

destiny

noun

ˈde-stə-nē 

as in fate

a state or end that seemingly has been decided beforehand

I just knew that it wasn't my destiny to end up in a dead-end job

Synonyms & Similar Words

• fate
• fortune
• luck
• doom
• circumstance
• chance
• accident
• portion
• kismet
• hazard
• lot
• outcome
• predestination
• happenstance
• effect
• development
• happenchance
• result
• issue
• casualty
• hap
• consequence
• sequence
• aftermath
• sequel
• upshot
• resultant
• conclusion
• fruit
• outgrowth
• aftereffect

Synonym Chooser

How is the word destiny distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of destiny are doom, fate, lot, and portion. While all these words mean "a predetermined state or end," destiny implies something foreordained and often suggests a great or noble course or end.

the country's destiny to be a model of liberty to the world

When could doom be used to replace destiny?

The synonyms doom and destiny are sometimes interchangeable, but doom distinctly implies a grim or calamitous fate.

if the rebellion fails, his doom is certain

When is it sensible to use fate instead of destiny?

While the synonyms fate and destiny are close in meaning, fate implies an inevitable and usually an adverse outcome.

the fate of the submarine is unknown

How are the words lot and portion related as synonyms of destiny?

Both lot and portion imply a distribution by fate or destiny, lot suggesting blind chance.

it was her lot to die childless

When is portion a more appropriate choice than destiny?

The words portion and destiny are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, portion implies the apportioning of good and evil.

remorse was his daily portion

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of destiny

In the story, David becomes the King of Israel, along the way taking on Goliath (Martin Ford) and navigating love and loss to fulfill his ultimate destiny despite starting off as an outcast teenager. —Matt Minton, Variety, 28 Jan. 2025

The epic second chapter in this Dune adaptation trilogy sees Paul Atreides reluctantly step into his messianic desert destiny. —Jordan Minor, PCMAG, 29 Jan. 2025

Growth is the watchword as the filmmakers also weave in stories (well, folktales) from Norwegian traditions concerned with the Norns, a trio of Norse deities believed to be responsible for the shaping of human destiny and tasked with caring for Yggdrasill, the tree at the center of everything. —Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 25 Jan. 2025

Remember: Every failure is an opportunity to get closer to fulfilling your destiny. —Veronica Angela, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025