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

But no matter how strong Carmen becomes, her destiny — embodied by a wraithlike old woman who turns up whenever the orchestra plays Bizet’s 10-note fate motif — is predetermined. —Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Mar. 2026

To destinies that cross front lines and are never the same again. —Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 26 Mar. 2026

But go back and watch what led up to it, and you’ll be reminded of how much has to go right for what looks like destiny to become, well, destined. —Mike Finger, San Antonio Express-News, 21 Mar. 2026

By Wednesday, the determination of our collective destiny will be all over, bar the shouting. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2026