English Reference
adjective · verb

doomed

adj. · v.
US /ˈdumd/ UK /dˈuːmd/ doomed

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.certain to fail, die, or be destroyed, with no way to change the result.

    adj.destined to a tragic or catastrophic fate; certain to suffer death, failure, or ruin.

    Simple

    The explorers knew their mission was doomed when they ran out of water.

    In context

    The peace treaty seemed doomed from the outset, as neither side was willing to make the necessary territorial concessions.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to make it certain that someone or something will fail or suffer.

    v.to condemn or destine to an unhappy or terrible fate. Often used in the passive voice.

    Simple

    The bad weather doomed our plans for a picnic in the park.

    In context

    The lack of funding effectively doomed the project before the research phase had even concluded.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the passive form 'to be doomed to' followed by a noun or infinitive.

    condemndestine
  3. 03 C2 Proficiency ArchaicLiterary

    adj.certain to happen because of fate, whether the result is good or bad.

    adj.destined or fated to a particular outcome, regardless of its positive or negative nature.

    Simple

    The old stories tell of a hero doomed to lead his people to a new land.

    In context

    In the ancient epic, the protagonist is doomed to wander the seas until he finds the hidden temple of his ancestors.

We are probably doomed, with all the storms coming.

The Guardian· 10 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated