An outcome that is preordained is believed to be happening in a way that has already been decided by a power like God or fate.
Understanding the Concept of Preordained Outcomes
When something is described as preordained, it signifies a belief that its occurrence or ultimate result has been determined in advance by a higher authority or an intrinsic force. This concept suggests that the future is not simply a matter of chance or individual choice, but rather the unfolding of a plan that was set long before the events actually transpired.
The core idea behind a preordained outcome includes:
- Divine or Fated Decision: It implies that a supreme being, divine will, or the unchangeable forces of fate have already set the course for what is to happen. This view often removes the element of human control over the final outcome.
- Unfolding of Destiny: From this perspective, individual actions and events are not independent occurrences but rather steps within a larger, already-established design. Our lives and experiences are seen as the natural progression or "unfolding" of a predetermined destiny.
The term is often used in a formal context when discussing philosophical or theological viewpoints on destiny and free will.
Synonyms and Related Concepts
The concept of preordination shares similarities with other terms that convey a sense of inevitability or prior arrangement. Understanding these related words can further clarify the meaning:
| Term | Implied Meaning |
|---|---|
| Preordained | Decided in advance by a higher power (e.g., God, fate) |
| Predetermined | Settled or decided beforehand; established in advance |
| Fated | Destined to happen; subject to the influence of fate |
| Doomed | Destined to an unfortunate or catastrophic end; also, generally, certain to happen |
| Destined | Certain to happen in the future; intended for a particular purpose or outcome |
Belief in preordained outcomes often intersects with discussions about determinism versus free will, prompting questions about the extent of human agency and responsibility if the future is already set.
