fait accompli

[fe ta-kawn-plee] / fɛ ta kɔ̃ˈpli /

NOUN

accomplished fact

Synonyms

WEAK

a truth accomplished fact certainty cold hard facts done deal done deed fact of life grim reality hard facts irreversible accomplishment irreversible act irreversible truth matter of fact reality self-evident fact undeniable fact

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Yet the majority is trying to avoid a fait accompli.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 3, 2026

That fait accompli brought them worldwide fame, culminating in two open-air gigs at Knebworth House in summer 1996.

From BBC • Jul. 3, 2025

Before this rebel resurgence, Assad’s survival seemed a fait accompli.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 4, 2024

“We will not consent to fait accompli and unlawfulness on the island.”

From Washington Times • Aug. 22, 2023

Sometimes it is necessary to present one’s colleagues with a policy that is already a fait accompli.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela