Twist of fate

Definitions

• unexpected change in circumstances
  Refers to a sudden and unforeseen turn of events, often with negative consequences, that drastically alters the course of one's life or plans

• ironic turn of events
  Can also refer to a surprising or unexpected outcome that is contrary to what was expected or intended, often with a sense of irony or humor

Examples of Twist of fate

• After losing her job and going through a messy divorce, Sarah thought her life couldn't get any worse. But then she won the lottery in a twist of fate.

  The idiom "twist of fate" refers to an unexpected and often dramatic turn of events that seems to happen by chance. In this example, Sarah's bad luck seems to have reached its lowest point, but then a lucky break comes out of nowhere, changing the course of her life.

• The team's star player, who had been struggling with injuries all season, suddenly found his form in the playoffs in a twist of fate.

  Here, the idiom is used to describe a surprising and positive change in circumstances, particularly in the context of sports. The player's unexpected improvement could be seen as a stroke of luck or good fortune, which may have come at a crucial time in the team's season.

• The couple had been trying to conceive for years, but after a trip to Bali, they found themselves expecting a baby in a twist of fate.

  In this example, the idiom is used to describe a surprising and fortunate outcome that seems to have been brought about by chance. The couple's decision to travel to Bali may have been unrelated to their fertility issues, but it led to a happy and unexpected result.

• The burglar, who had been on the run for weeks, was finally caught in a twist of fate when he was recognized by a shopkeeper who had seen him on the news.

  Here, the idiom is used to describe a surprising and fortunate turn of events that brings about a positive outcome. The burglar's capture may have been due to a combination of factors, but the shopkeeper's recognition played a crucial role in bringing him to justice.

• The car, which had been parked on the street for months, was sold in a twist of fate to a collector who recognized its historical significance.

  In this example, the idiom is used to describe a surprising and fortunate outcome that results from a chance encounter. The car's new owner may have been unaware of its value when he first saw it, but his recognition of its historical significance led to a sale that benefited both parties.

Conclusion

The idiom "twist of fate" is used to describe a sudden and unexpected change in circumstances, often with negative consequences. It can also be used to describe a surprising or ironic turn of events.

Origin of "Twist of fate"

The origin of the idiom "twist of fate" can be traced back to Greek mythology. In Greek mythology, the three Fates were believed to control the threads of human destiny. These three sisters, Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos, were responsible for spinning, measuring, and cutting the thread of life for each person. It was believed that their actions could determine the fate of an individual.

Over time, the phrase "twist of fate" came to be used in a more general sense to describe any unexpected or unplanned event that significantly changes the course of one's life. It is often used in a dramatic or poignant way to convey the idea that life is unpredictable and can change in an instant.

Today, the idiom "twist of fate" is commonly used in everyday language to describe any unexpected or ironic turn of events. It is often used to express a sense of resignation or acceptance towards the unpredictable nature of life.