fate and destiny

Fate and destiny both refer to a predetermined course of events, but they carry different connotations.

Fate suggests inevitability and often implies forces beyond human control—frequently with negative overtones: It was fate that brought them together, He met his fate on the battlefield.

Destiny tends toward the positive or purposeful, suggesting a grand design or calling: She was destined for greatness, manifest destiny.

In practice, the words overlap considerably, and speakers often choose based on tone rather than strict meaning.