Kismet Meaning and Definition
Kismet
Pronunciation
/kɪˈzet/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A sudden and often unexpected event that is seen as being destined or predetermined; a fate that is believed to be outside of one’s control.
Examples
1. “She felt that winning the lottery was a case of kismet, and she was destined to be rich.”
2. “He believed that meeting his soulmate was a kismet moment that changed the course of his life.”
Synonyms
1. Fate
2. Destiny
3. Fortune
Antonyms
1. Choice
2. Free will
Etymology
The word “kismet” originates from the Arabic word “qismat,” which means “fate” or “destiny.” It was later adopted into Persian as “qismet” and then into English.
Usage Notes
Kismet is often used to describe a sudden and unexpected event that is seen as being beyond one’s control. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on the outcome of the event.
For example: “She won the lottery and attributed it to kismet.” or “He believed that his accident was a case of kismet and a wake-up call.”
Cultural References
Kismet has been used in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. For example, the musical “Kismet” was written by Alexander Borodin in 1913, and the term has been used in numerous other works of fiction to describe a predetermined fate or destiny.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “It was kismet.” (meaning: it was meant to be)
2. “She felt it was kismet.” (meaning: she felt it was predetermined or destined)
Collocations
1. “It was a kismet moment.” (meaning: a sudden and unexpected event)
2. “She believes in kismet.” (meaning: she believes in fate or destiny)
Frequency of Use
Kismet is a relatively uncommon word in modern language, but it is still used in various contexts to describe a predetermined fate or destiny.
Common Misspellings
1. “Kesmet”
2. “Kismit”
Additional Information
Kismet is often associated with Eastern cultures, particularly in the Middle East and South Asia, where the concept of fate and destiny is deeply ingrained. The idea of kismet is that one’s life is predetermined by a higher power or force, and that events are unfolding according to a predestined plan.
The concept of kismet has been debated and discussed by philosophers, theologians, and scholars across various disciplines. Some argue that kismet is a form of fatalism, while others see it as a way of coping with the uncertainty and unpredictability of life.
In contemporary language, kismet is often used to describe a sudden and unexpected event that is seen as being beyond one’s control. It can be used in both personal and professional contexts to describe a turning point or a moment of fate that has a significant impact on one’s life.
For example, a person might say, “I met my spouse on a trip to Europe, and it was kismet. We knew right away that we were meant to be together.” or “I started my own business, and it was a case of kismet. The investors came through, and I was able to launch my project on time.”