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Synonyms for

Pessimistic

Adjective / ˌpesʌˈmɪstɪk / Another word for pessimistic — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

expecting the worst possible outcome; having a negative outlook

Synonyms & similar words

optimistic negative gloomy dismal bleak despondent hopeless fatalistic cynical defeatist melancholy sad unhappy worried anxious depressed discouraged disheartened downcast forlorn gloomy

Synonyms by register

Formal

cynical fatalistic downbeat morose

Informal

gloomy negative down in the dumps glass-half-empty

Literary

melancholy jaundiced foreboding

Antonyms

optimistic hopeful positive cheerful confident sanguine upbeat

Common collocations

  • pessimistic outlook
  • pessimistic view
  • pessimistic about the future
  • deeply pessimistic
  • inherently pessimistic
  • tend to be pessimistic

Word family

noun pessimism
adjective pessimistic
adverb pessimistically

Usage note

Pessimistic describes a tendency to see the worst aspect of things or believe that the worst will happen. It is often contrasted with optimistic.

Compare "pessimistic" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. He had a pessimistic view of the future.
  2. Her pessimistic attitude made her think the worst would happen.
  3. The weather forecast was pessimistic, predicting rain all week.
  4. The pessimistic report made the investors nervous.
  5. The teacher tried to change his students' pessimistic attitudes.

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