English Reference
adjective · verb

destined

adj. · v.
US /ˈdɛstɪnd/ UK /dˈɛstɪnd/ des·tined

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.certain to happen or to do something because of fate or a strong plan.

    adj.predetermined by fate, providence, or a specific plan; often used with a following infinitive to indicate an inevitable future action.

    Simple

    From a young age, it was clear that she was destined to become a great musician.

    In context

    The small startup seemed destined for failure until a sudden shift in market trends made their product essential overnight.

    Usage

    Usually follows the verb 'to be' and is followed by 'to' and an infinitive.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    adj.travelling toward a specific destination.

    adj.intended for or travelling toward a particular destination; typically used in the construction 'destined for'.

    Simple

    The ship was destined for the port of Rotterdam but had to stop for repairs.

    In context

    Customs officials intercepted a large shipment of electronics destined for the black market in several neighbouring countries.

    Usage

    Almost always followed by the preposition 'for'.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency LiteraryFormal

    v.to intend or set something aside for a specific purpose or person.

    v.to appoint or ordain for a specific purpose or end. This transitive use is most common in the passive voice.

    Simple

    The money was destined for the new hospital wing before the budget cuts.

    In context

    The king had destined his eldest daughter for the throne, despite the traditional laws of succession that favoured her younger brother.

    Usage

    Commonly appears in the passive voice as 'be destined'.

Bellis said he could spot 68 different grades of wool as he had worked through the fleeces, with the best destined for formal wear while others ended up as slug pellets.

BBC News· 18 Aug 2026

Charlton survived somewhat comfortably in the end and they have attracted Karlan Grant back and signed the skilful Millenic Alli but they still feel like a side destined for a long 10 months .

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated