word choice - "Destiny" vs. "Fate"


I'm aware a search will turn up many discussions on the differences or interchangeability of these terms, but it would be good to get some answers here with an emphasis on the etymology of the two words. Does the usage history of these words add connotations beyond their dictionary definitions?



Answer



Fate is from the Latin fatum, which means "that which has been spoken."
Destiny is from the Latin destinare, which means "to make firm" or "to establish."


I agree with Billare that fate has a more fatalistic feel (fatalistic also comes from fatum), as it has a deeper implication of one's end being decided by a separate entity.


Reference: the NOAD.


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