Hanging and wiving go by destiny.
Hanging and wiving go by destiny.
Meaning in plain English
The saying places execution and marriage under destiny. It joins a severe event and a relationship decision through the belief that both are predetermined.
Example
A reader distinguishes a character’s appeal to fate from the choices and responsibilities shown elsewhere in the story.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The unusual pairing gives fate a wide reach over different parts of life. A careful reading studies that fatalism without adopting it as a reason to abandon choice or consent. It does not establish anyone’s destined partner or deserved punishment. The useful question is how a story or speaker treats responsibility when an outcome is called inevitable.
When to use it
Use it to discuss fatalism across unlike events.
Keep in mind
The saying does not verify predestination or remove the need for consent and fair treatment.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases
Entry 411 · Destiny
Read the original context ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · historical anthology
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Public domain (United States)
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
Provenance and licences ↗