What does foreordaining mean?
Foreordaining refers to the act of deciding or determining something in advance, often with a sense of inevitability or destiny. This can be seen in various contexts, such as business decisions, astrological predictions, or even historical events. The word implies a level of certainty or predetermination, suggesting that the outcome was always going to be a certain way. Foreordaining can be used in formal or literary contexts to add depth and complexity to a narrative. It is a useful word for describing situations where the outcome seems predetermined or inevitable. In everyday language, foreordaining can be used to describe a situation where the outcome is clear or certain, but it is often used in more formal or creative writing to add nuance and interest.
verbTo decide or determine in advance; to predetermine or foretell.
- To decide or determine in advance; to predetermine or foretell.
"The company's decision to expand into new markets was foreordaining its eventual success."
"The company's decision to expand into new markets was foreordaining its eventual success."
"The astrologer's predictions were seen as foreordaining the king's downfall."
Used in formal or literary contexts to describe multiple instances of foreordaining.
"The company's decisions were seen as foreordinings of its eventual success."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of foreordaining
The word foreordaining comes from the Old French word 'foreordener', which is derived from the Latin words 'fore' meaning 'before' and 'ordinare' meaning 'to order'. This Latin root is also seen in the word 'ordain', which shares a similar meaning. The word has been used in English since the 15th century, initially in formal or literary contexts.
Usage notes
Formal or literary usage. Can imply a sense of inevitability or destiny.