having far-reaching and typically disastrous consequences or implications, controlled by fate; predetermined

fateful hour, fateful meeting, fateful decision

Formal and Informal Expressions of fateful

In different contexts, you can replace 'fateful' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'decisive, critical' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'big, huge' is a commonplace synonym.

fateful: Explore its Definition & Usage

fateful Definition

1having far-reaching and typically disastrous consequences or implications
2controlled by fate; predetermined

Using fateful: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "fateful" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The fateful decision to go to war was made by the president.
Example
Their fateful encounter changed their lives forever.
Example
The fateful day finally arrived when they had to say goodbye.
Example
The fateful moment came when she had to choose between her career and her family.

fateful Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for fateful

Antonyms for fateful

Phrases with fateful

fateful hour
a critical or decisive moment in time
Example
The fateful hour of the election results had finally arrived.
fateful meeting
a meeting that has significant and long-lasting consequences
Example
Their fateful meeting at the coffee shop led to a lifelong friendship.
fateful decision
a decision that has far-reaching and potentially disastrous consequences
Example
The fateful decision to invest all their savings in the stock market led to financial ruin.

Origins of fateful

from fate + -ful

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Summary: fateful in Brief

The term 'fateful' [ˈfeɪtfʊl] describes something that has significant and often disastrous consequences. It can refer to decisions, encounters, moments, or hours that are critical or decisive. Examples include 'Their fateful encounter changed their lives forever.' and 'The fateful decision to go to war was made by the president.' Synonyms include 'momentous' and 'consequential.'