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Pessimistically: meaning, definitions and examples

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pessimistically

 

[ˌpesɪˈmɪstɪk(ə)li ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a negative or gloomy way

Pessimistically is an adverb that describes the attitude or outlook of someone who always expects the worst possible outcome. It is the opposite of optimism and reflects a belief that things will not turn out well.

Synonyms

cynically, gloomily, negatively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pessimistically

Use this word when describing someone's general belief that bad things will happen or that a situation will not improve.

  • She looked at the economic forecast pessimistically, convinced that a recession was inevitable
negatively

This word is appropriate when referring to a general attitude or reaction that is unfavorable or critical. It can be used in a broad range of contexts.

  • He reacted negatively to the feedback, refusing to see any merit in the suggestions
gloomily

This word should be used when describing a mood or atmosphere that feels dark, depressing, or hopeless. It can refer to both internal feelings and external environments.

  • The sky was overcast, and she walked home gloomily, feeling the weight of her worries
cynically

This word is best used when describing someone who believes that people are motivated purely by self-interest. It often has a negative connotation.

  • He spoke cynically about the charity event, suggesting that it was organized just for tax benefits

Examples of usage

  • He viewed the situation pessimistically, convinced that failure was inevitable.
  • She approached the project pessimistically, doubting that it would be successful.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Latin 'pessimus,' meaning 'worst,' reflecting a notable focus on negative outcomes.
  • It entered the English language in the early 19th century, emphasizing its long-standing association with negative thinking.
  • The suffix '-istically' implies a manner of doing something, indicating a way of thinking is being referred to.

Psychology

  • Pessimism is often linked to feelings of helplessness and has been studied in relation to depression and anxiety.
  • Research shows that pessimistic people may be less likely to take risks, as they assume negative outcomes.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy often aims to challenge and change pessimistic thinking patterns to promote better mental health.

Pop Culture

  • Characters who display pessimistic attitudes appear frequently in literature and film, often as the foil to more optimistic protagonists.
  • The 2001 movie 'The Royal Tenenbaums' features a pessimistically inclined character that embodies the struggles and humor of such a viewpoint.
  • Famous pessimists in history include philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer, whose ideas about life permeated literature and art.

Philosophy

  • Pessimism as a philosophical doctrine suggests that life is filled with suffering and that life's inherent challenges outweigh its joys.
  • Contrast exists with optimism, which holds a more hopeful view of human experience and future possibilities.
  • Philosophers like Emil Cioran elaborated on ideas of pessimism, often exploring existential themes and the meaning of suffering.

Literature

  • Pessimistic tones are prevalent in the works of authors like Franz Kafka and Samuel Beckett, reflecting themes of absurdity and despair.
  • Poetry often captures pessimistic views in verses that explore loss, existential dread, and the human condition.
  • Many literary movements, like Naturalism, often depict life with a pessimistic lens, illustrating struggles against unfavourable circumstances.

Translations

Translations of the word "pessimistically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pessimisticamente

🇮🇳 निराशावादिता से

🇩🇪 pessimistisch

🇮🇩 dengan pesimistis

🇺🇦 песимістично

🇵🇱 pesymistycznie

🇯🇵 悲観的に

🇫🇷 pessimiste

🇪🇸 pesimistamente

🇹🇷 kötümser bir şekilde

🇰🇷 비관적으로

🇸🇦 بتشاؤم

🇨🇿 pesimisticky

🇸🇰 pesimisticky

🇨🇳 悲观地

🇸🇮 pesimistično

🇮🇸 svartsýn

🇰🇿 пессимистік

🇬🇪 პესიმისტურად

🇦🇿 bədbinliklə

🇲🇽 pesimistamente

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,750, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.