Definition

Determined or decided in advance; something that is meant to happen as if it has been planned beforehand.

Example

Many believe that our lives are predestinate and that our paths are already set.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how our paths might be predestinate?

I guess it’s an interesting idea, but I believe we make our own choices.

That’s true, but sometimes it feels like certain things are meant to happen.

Yeah, like meeting the right people at the right time — maybe that’s predestinate in a way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To determine or decide something in advance, often in a religious or philosophical context.

Example

Many believe that their lives are predestinated by a higher power.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Do you ever think our lives are predestinate in some way?

Sometimes, but I believe we have the power to change our paths.

I wonder if certain events are meant to happen, like they were planned out for us.

Root Explanation

Predestinate → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "destinare" (meaning to determine or establish). The word refers to the act of determining or establishing something in advance, often in a theological context regarding fate or divine will.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'determined' ('destinare') 'before' ('pre-') it happens — that's why predestinate means to determine in advance.

Visually Confused Words