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

Two timeouts and another run from Jordan wrapped up the drive and put the Trojans in control of their own destiny. —Haley Sawyer, Oc Register, 14 Sep. 2025

Mercury, the Planet of Communication, enters Libra on the 18th, illuminating your career zone for the next three weeks, and since the upcoming Virgo solar eclipse eclipse is ruled by Mercury, these conversations at work are infused with destiny. —Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 14 Sep. 2025

But what is indisputable is that the Padres’ five victories in their past eight games (and their 81 victories in 149 games) are enough to have them very much in control of their destiny. —Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Sep. 2025

Maybe destiny does exist, and this is hers. —Keith Phipps, Vulture, 11 Sep. 2025