Kismet
Fate — the portion of destiny allotted to you. Used in English with a fatalistic shrug or a romantic sigh, depending on the century.
Full definition of Kismet →:: COMPARE ::
KismetvsSerendipity
The short answer
Serendipity is a happy accident you were not owed. Kismet is a share you were always going to be dealt. One is luck; the other is bookkeeping.
Side by side
| Aspect | Kismet | Serendipity |
|---|---|---|
| Allotted in advance | Yes | No |
| Requires you to notice | No | Yes |
| Emotional register | Resignation | Delight |
| Root image | Division | An island |
What each one means
Serendipity
Finding something valuable you were not looking for. In everyday use that is simply a fortunate accident; in Walpole's stricter original sense it also takes the sagacity to notice what you have stumbled on.
Full definition of Serendipity →