fatum
[ˈfaː.tũː]
The English phrase 'doom' (as an undesirable fate) is translated into Latin as fatum.
fatum is used to describe an undesirable fate or destiny.
Meaning: undesirable fate (noun)
Which one should you use?
While fatum refers to an undesirable fate, other Latin forms express specific types of doom. Perditio refers to complete and irreversible destruction, while Exitium means ruin or destruction. Ruina represents the physical collapse or downfall of something. Finally, Damnatio encapsulates the notion of being condemned, sentenced or damned.
Did you know?
- While fatum is often a dark destiny, the word damnatio specifically refers to a legal sentence. In Rome, the phrase damnatio memoriae was a punishment where a person's entire existence was erased from public records.
- The Latin word fatum is derived from the verb meaning 'to speak'. In the Roman worldview, fate was not a random force but a decree spoken by the gods.
- The concept of fatum was so powerful in Roman culture that it was often viewed as an inescapable law. Even the gods were sometimes depicted as subject to the decrees of fatum.
Examples in context
- perditio animarumDamnation
- Fatum crudelissimum est.It is a most cruel fate.
- Nemo fatum vitare potest.No one can avoid fate.
- Fatum regum est grave.The fate of kings is heavy.
Example conversation
Lucia and Gaius discuss the unpredictability of life in a garden.
- LuciaCur tristis es, Lucia?Why are you sad, Lucia?
- GaiusFatum mihi timendum est.I must fear fate.
- LuciaNoli timere fatum, Lucia.Do not fear fate, Lucia.
- GaiusSed fatum est incertum.But fate is uncertain.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry fatum, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries fatum, CC BY-SA 4.0.
