Definition

1. Noun:
   • A general tendency to see the worst aspect of things or believe that the worst will happen: "Pessimism" refers to a mindset or attitude characterized by expecting negative outcomes.
   • The belief that this world is as bad as it could be or that evil will ultimately prevail over good: In a philosophical context, it denotes a doctrine that the existing world is fundamentally bad or that suffering outweighs happiness.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • His constant pessimism about the economy is draining. (His continual expectation of bad economic outcomes is exhausting.)
  • The novel is steeped in a profound philosophical pessimism. (The novel is deeply imbued with a belief in the prevalence of evil or suffering.)

Advanced Usage

• "Cultivate pessimism": To deliberately adopt or foster a pessimistic outlook.
  • Some strategists cultivate pessimism to prepare for all possible setbacks.
• "Pessimism of the intellect": A phrase suggesting it is rational to critically assess and expect difficulties, often contrasted with optimism in action.
  • He advocated for a pessimism of the intellect but an optimism of the will.

Variants and Related Words

• Pessimist (n): A person who tends to see the worst aspect of things or believe the worst will happen.
  • She is a born pessimist who always expects the plan to fail.
• Pessimistic (adj): Having or showing a lack of hope for the future.
  • He gave a pessimistic forecast for the company's sales.

Synonyms

• Gloom: A state of depression or despondency.
• Cynicism: An inclination to believe that people are motivated purely by self-interest.
• Negativity: The expression of criticism or pessimism.

Antonyms

• Optimism: Hopefulness and confidence about the future or the successful outcome of something.

Related Idioms

• "See the glass as half empty": To view a situation from a pessimistic perspective.
  • Pessimists always see the glass as half empty.
• "Prepare for the worst": To make plans based on the most negative possible outcome, reflecting a pessimistic stance.
  • Her pessimism led her to always prepare for the worst.

Noun

1. a general disposition to look on the dark side and to expect the worst in all things
2. the feeling that things will turn out badly