Defeatism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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defeatism
[dɪˈfiːtɪz(ə)m ]
Definition
attitude towards life
Defeatism is the acceptance of defeat without struggle, often accompanied by a negative outlook and lack of motivation.
Synonyms
despondency, pessimism, resignation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| defeatism |
Defeatism refers to an attitude of accepting failure and expecting to lose or be defeated, often prematurely. It's often used in contexts where someone gives up without fully trying.
|
| pessimism |
Pessimism is the tendency to see the worst aspect of things or believe that the worst will happen. It is often used in contexts where someone habitually expects negative outcomes.
|
| resignation |
Resignation refers to the acceptance of something undesirable but inevitable. It is often used when someone acknowledges a situation without necessarily feeling defeated.
|
| despondency |
Despondency is a state of low spirits caused by a loss of hope or courage. It is often used when someone feels helpless and overwhelmed by difficulties.
|
Examples of usage
- His defeatism prevented him from even attempting to achieve his goals.
- She was tired of his defeatism and wanted to inspire him to be more positive.
- The defeatism in the team was palpable after losing their third game in a row.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People exhibiting defeatism might suffer from learned helplessness, a condition where individuals feel unable to control the outcome of situations.
- This mindset can negatively impact mental health, leading to anxiety and depression.
- Overcoming defeatism often requires cognitive restructuring to promote a more positive and proactive attitude.
Literature
- Defeatist themes are portrayed in many works, illustrating characters who accept doom, such as in dystopian novels.
- Authors often use defeatism to present critique on societal issues, emphasizing feelings of hopelessness.
- Classic works like George Orwell's '1984' can highlight the futility of resistance in oppressive systems.
Pop Culture
- Movies often depict defeatism in characters who face overwhelming odds, such as in war films or dramas.
- Defeatism can be a key element in character development, showcasing the struggle between hope and despair.
- It is common in sports narratives, where players must overcome a defeatist mentality to achieve success.
History
- In wartime contexts, defeatism has been viewed as treasonous; historical leaders often suppressed messages that promoted surrender.
- Post-World War I, defeatist attitudes influenced various social movements, leading to changes in political landscapes.
- In modern times, defeatism can manifest in public discourse about climate change, with some feeling it is hopeless to combat the issue.
Origin of 'defeatism'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'defeatism' combines 'defeat' with the suffix '-ism' which denotes a belief or ideology.
- It originated in the early 20th century, particularly after World War I, as societies faced disillusionment.
- Associated with a resignation to failure, it reflects a cultural response to adversity.
The word 'defeatism' originated during World War I, when it was used to describe a negative attitude towards the war effort. It combines the root 'defeat' with the suffix '-ism', indicating a belief or doctrine. Over time, defeatism has come to be associated with a general attitude of pessimism and resignation in the face of challenges.
See also: defeat, defeatable, defeated, defeating, defeatist, defeats, undefeatable.