定め
さ
だ
め
Meanings
1
rule; regulation; provision; decision
Refers to established rules, laws, or decisions that govern behavior or procedures. Often used in formal or institutional contexts.
Please act in accordance with the company's rules.
This regulation will come into effect next month.
2
Refers to an inevitable outcome or predetermined course of events, often with a poetic or philosophical nuance. Can imply a sense of resignation or acceptance.
No one can escape their destiny.
He accepted his fate.
Usage patterns
- 〈事〉の定めthe rule/regulation concerning something
We carry out the procedure in accordance with the provisions of the law.
- 〜のが定めit is one's fate that ~
It is every person's fate to die someday.
- 定めを守るto abide by a rule
They live abiding by the village's rules.
- 定めを受け入れるto accept one's fate
He has lived accepting his own fate.