注定

• Pinyin: zhù dìng
• Hanzi breakdown: 注 = 氵 + 主 (pour, concentrate); 定 = 宀 + 疋 (fix, settle)

Meaning

To be destined; to be fated; predetermined. Something that is bound to happen as if by fate.

Implies that an outcome is inevitable, either due to fate, circumstances, or inherent nature. Can carry positive, negative, or neutral connotations depending on context. Common in both literary and everyday speech.

Examples

1. 他们的相遇似乎是注定的。 It seemed their meeting was destined.
2. 这场比赛的结果早已注定。 The outcome of this match was decided long ago.
3. 性格注定了他的命运。 His personality determined his fate.

Usage Guide

Context: philosophy, relationships, narrative

Tone: fatalistic

Do Say

• 有些事情是注定无法改变的。(Some things are destined to be unchangeable.)
• 他的才华注定了他会成功。(His talent destined him to succeed.)

Don't Say

• 我注定吃午饭 — too dramatic for routine activities; 注定 is for significant, fated events

Origin & History

注 (to pour, concentrate) + 定 (to fix, determine)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal