Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈfɔːtʃən/

Definitions

1. Chance or luck as an arbitrary force affecting human affairs.

2. A large amount of wealth or success.

3. The state of being fortunate; good luck or favorable circumstances.

Usage Examples

1. "He inherited a great fortune from his grandfather."

2. "It was purely by fortune that we met at the party."

3. "Her success in business was a result of hard work, not just fortune."

Etymology

The word "fortune" comes from the Latin *fortuna*, meaning "luck, chance, or fate." The term is derived from *fortis*, meaning "strong," and *-una*, a suffix denoting a quality, conveying the idea of a force that is both powerful and unpredictable.

Synonyms

1. Luck

2. Fate

3. Prosperity

4. Wealth

5. Success

Antonyms

1. Misfortune

2. Bad luck

3. Adversity

4. Poverty

5. Unlucky

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In English, the word "fortune" is typically pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable, /ˈfɔːtʃən/. Regional accents may affect the vowel sounds, particularly the "o" in "fort" or the "t" sound at the end. In some areas, the word may sound more like "for-chin" or "for-tune," depending on local phonetics.

Historical Usage

The word "fortune" has been used since the 14th century, derived from the Latin *fortuna*, referring to chance or luck, and later evolving into its modern meaning of wealth and prosperity. Throughout history, fortune has been seen as a force that either helps or hinders individuals, often tied to fate or divine will. The concept of fortune has played a central role in philosophy, literature, and even religious thought.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of "fortune" is prevalent in many cultures and often associated with fate, luck, or divine blessing. In Western cultures, fortune is frequently viewed as a random force that favors some while neglecting others. In Eastern cultures, fortune may also be seen as the result of one's actions, karma, or cosmic alignment. The idea of fortune has led to the creation of various rituals, beliefs, and superstitions aimed at attracting good fortune and averting misfortune.

More Information

Throughout history, the idea of "fortune" has had a powerful influence on human culture, inspiring countless works of literature, art, and philosophy. From the writings of ancient Greek philosophers like Heraclitus, who saw fortune as a fundamental part of life's flow, to Shakespeare's works in which fortune is often personified as both a friend and a foe, the concept remains a key theme in human understanding. Whether seen as the product of chance, divine will, or personal effort, fortune continues to fascinate and shape the human experience.