pessimistic
peh-suh-MIHS-tihk
Pessimistic (adjective) means expecting the worst; having a negative outlook. Example: “The forecast was pessimistic about a quick economic recovery.”
adjective
1
Expecting the worst; having a negative outlook.
"The forecast was pessimistic about a quick economic recovery."
"Try not to be so pessimistic about the interview — it could go well."
How to use pessimistic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHaving or showing a negative, worst-case-scenario outlook.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
pessimistic outlook
pessimistic about
overly pessimistic
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more pessimistic
- Superlative
- most pessimistic
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The forecast was _____ about a quick economic recovery.
Etymology
From pessimist + the adjective ending -ic.
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for pessimistic
holistic
sadistic
artistic
autistic
logistic
heuristic
statistic
realistic
ballistic
hedonistic
linguistic
futuristic
See all rhymes for pessimistic →
Frequently asked questions
What does “pessimistic” mean?
The word “pessimistic” means expecting the worst; having a negative outlook. In plain terms, having or showing a negative, worst-case-scenario outlook.
How do you pronounce “pessimistic”?
“Pessimistic” is pronounced peh-suh-MIHS-tihk (/ˌpɛ.səˈmɪs.tɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “pessimistic” in a sentence?
Here is “pessimistic” used in a sentence: “The forecast was pessimistic about a quick economic recovery.”
What is the opposite of “pessimistic”?
The opposite of “pessimistic” — its antonyms — is optimistic.
What part of speech is “pessimistic”?
“Pessimistic” is an adjective.
Is “pessimistic” a common word?
“Pessimistic” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
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