destinado a ser
/destinado a seɾ/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'meant to be' is translated into Spanish as destinado a ser.
destinado a ser is used to express that something is supposedly destined or fated to happen. When you want to describe a past event or a fate that was already set, you will typically use the form estaba destinado a ser. In formal contexts, you can also express this idea by saying Fue una coincidencia perfecta.
Meaning: supposedly (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a literal translation of 'destined to be', where destinado means 'destined' and a ser means 'to be'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective destinado must agree in gender and number with the subject it describes. Use destinada a ser if the subject is feminine, and destinados a ser if the subject is masculine plural.
How do you pronounce it?
/destinado a seɾ/
Did you know?
- The verb ser in destinado a ser shares an ancient ancestor with the Latin word sedēre, which means 'to sit'.
- In Spanish, the word destino serves as both 'destiny' and 'destination'. This gives destinado a ser a subtle double meaning of traveling toward a physical end point.
- While destinado a ser refers to a cosmic fate, Spanish speakers often use the phrase estaba escrito, meaning 'it was written', to express the same sentiment.
Examples in context
- El éxito de su nueva empresa estaba predestinado desde el principio.The success of his/her new company was meant to be from the beginning.
- Este proyecto está destinado a ser un éxito.This project is meant to be a success.
- El nuevo edificio está destinado a ser un hotel.The new building is meant to be a hotel.
Example conversation
Alejandro and María are discussing their career paths at a cafe.
- Alejandro¿Crees que este trabajo está destinado a ser tuyo?Do you think this job is meant to be yours?
- MaríaSí, siento que es mi oportunidad perfecta.Yes, I feel it is my perfect opportunity.
- AlejandroMaría, estoy muy feliz por ti.María, I am very happy for you.
- MaríaGracias, Alejandro, por creer en mí.Thank you, Alejandro, for believing in me.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, destinado, ser, CC BY-SA 4.0.
