Pessimistic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pessimistic

[ˌpesɪˈmɪstɪk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

outlook on life

Tending to see the worst aspect of things or believe that the worst will happen.

Synonyms

cynical, defeatist, negative.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pessimistic	Used when someone tends to expect the worst outcome in any situation. This word often applies to predictions about the future, and it may not always carry a strongly negative connotation. She had a pessimistic view about the project's success John remained pessimistic despite the good news
cynical	A word for someone who distrusts the motives of others and believes people act primarily out of self-interest. It has a negative connotation and suggests a deep skepticism about human nature. She was cynical about the politician's promises Tom had a cynical attitude towards charitable donations
negative	A general term for someone who tends to see the downsides or bad aspects of things. This can be used in many situations and has a broadly negative connotation. Her negative comments were not helpful He's always so negative about everything
defeatist	Denotes a person who expects to fail or believes that all efforts are futile. It is often used to label a mentality that undermines morale and has a negative connotation. His defeatist attitude discouraged the whole team Don't be so defeatist; we still have a chance to win

Examples of usage

He had a pessimistic view of the company's future.
She was pessimistic about her chances of success.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

personality trait

Showing a lack of hope or confidence in the future.

Synonyms

despondent, gloomy, melancholic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pessimistic	When someone always expects the worst to happen, often focusing on negative outcomes and dismissing positive possibilities. John is so pessimistic about the project; he thinks it’s going to fail no matter what we do
gloomy	Used to describe a mood or setting that is dark, depressing, and lacking in hope or cheerfulness. Can also describe weather that is cloudy or rainy. The gloomy weather made everyone feel down Mark’s outlook on life has been pretty gloomy since he lost his job
despondent	Typically used when someone feels extremely discouraged or has lost all hope, often after a significant setback or loss. After failing the exam for the third time, Sarah felt completely despondent about her future
melancholic	Best used when describing a deep, often poetic sadness or a thoughtful longing for the past. Can be seen as more reflective and less intense than despondent. She felt melancholic as she looked through old photo albums, remembering her childhood

Examples of usage

His pessimistic attitude was affecting the team morale.
The pessimistic students were not motivated to study.

^{Context #3 | Adjective}

weather forecast

Expecting the weather to be bad or unpleasant.

Synonyms

bleak, gloomy, grim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pessimistic	This word is best used to describe someone who consistently expects the worst to happen or views situations in a negative light. John's pessimistic outlook made it hard for him to enjoy social events Despite the team's hard work, her pessimistic attitude dampened their spirits
gloomy	Gloomy is used to describe a feeling or atmosphere that is dark, sad, or depressing. It is often associated with weather, rooms, or states of mind. The gloomy weather made everyone feel down Marta had a gloomy expression after hearing the bad news
bleak	Bleak is generally used to describe situations or environments that seem hopeless, depressing, and empty. It is often associated with physical surroundings but can also describe states of mind. The landscape was bleak, with grey skies and barren land After losing his job, Tom felt his future looked bleak
grim	Grim is often used to describe something very serious, bleak, and with no hope. It can refer to facial expressions, situations, or prospects. The doctor gave a grim diagnosis The soldiers faced a grim battle ahead

Examples of usage

The weather report was pessimistic, predicting heavy rain all week.
The pessimistic forecast led to many event cancellations.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'pessimistic'

The word 'pessimistic' originated from the Latin word 'pessimus' meaning 'worst'. It first appeared in English in the mid-18th century. The concept of pessimism has been explored by various philosophers and thinkers throughout history, such as Arthur Schopenhauer and Friedrich Nietzsche, who delved into the idea of a pessimistic view of the world.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,461, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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13458 hurrying
13459 rationally
13460 labouring
13461 pessimistic
13462 culminated
13463 nearing
13464 playwright
...