seal fate

seal someone's fate

if an event seals someone's fate, they are certain to fail or to have an unpleasant experience in the future. His father's illness sealed his fate - Sam gave up his hopes of a college education and stayed home to run the family business.

See also: fate, seal

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seal someone's/something's fate

to decide the future of someone or something. His father's illness sealed his fate, making it impossible for him to go to college. The election of Abraham Lincoln sealed the fate of slavery.

Usage notes: usually refers to an unsuccessful or unpleasant future

See also: fate, seal