strange fate; curious coincidence; happy chance
Refers to an unexpected, mysterious connection or turn of events that feels destined, whether positive or neutral. Often used when a meeting or event seems too unlikely to be mere chance.
It's a strange twist of fate that we could meet again like this.
I can only call it a curious coincidence that I got to know that person.
縁 is a broader term for fate, connection, or relationship. 不思議な縁 specifically emphasizes the mysterious or coincidental nature of that connection.
奇遇 means an unexpected meeting or coincidence, often used as an exclamation when running into someone. 不思議な縁 is more about the mysterious bond itself rather than the moment of meeting.
Compound of 不思議 (mysterious, strange) and 縁 (fate, connection). The phrase is a straightforward combination of its parts and has no unusual historical derivation.