Definitions

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

The last Bruins coach to survive that scenario was Ben Howland, who immediately entered the next season on the hot seat, his fate seemingly a fait accompli.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 8, 2026

"We were presented with a fait accompli that the decision had been made to accept manslaughter charges," she said.

From BBC • Jan. 26, 2024

There was no evidence or facts that likely would have changed their minds; The outcome was a fait accompli.

From Salon • Jul. 7, 2023

It is far better for her to make her own adjustment before the operation than to awaken from the anesthetic and find it a fait accompli.

From "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot

fait accompli

Example Sentences

Related Words