predestinarian
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //ˌprɛdɪˈstɪnɛrɪən//
KK: /prɪˌdɛstəˈnɛrɪən/
adjective
Definition
Relating to the belief that events, especially salvation, are determined in advance by a divine power.
Example
The predestinarian view suggests that our fates are already decided before we are born.
Conversation
I was reading about different beliefs, and I came across the term predestinarian philosophy.
Oh, interesting! What does that entail exactly?
It suggests that everything is predetermined by a higher power, which is pretty intense.
Yeah, that definitely makes you think about free will.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fated
foreordained
destined
Antonyms
free
unfated
indeterminate
noun
Definition
A person who believes that all events, including salvation, are determined in advance by a divine power.
Example
The predestinarian held firm to his beliefs about fate and divine will.
Conversation
Have you ever met a predestinarian?
No, I haven't. What do they believe in?
They believe that everything is predetermined by a higher power.
Root Explanation
Predestinarian → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before), "destinare" (meaning to determine or appoint), and "-ian" (meaning relating to or characterized by). The word refers to the belief or doctrine that God has eternally determined who will be saved and who will be damned, thus relating to the concept of predetermined fate.
Memory Tip
Think of 'pre-' meaning before and 'destinare' meaning to determine — this helps you remember that a predestinarian believes in a fate that has been determined beforehand.
Visually Confused Words
pedestrian
praenestinian