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Showing results for pessimism. Search instead for pessimis.
Definitions

pessimism

[pes-uh-miz-uhm] / ˈpɛs əˌmɪz əm /
NOUN
belief in bad outcome
Synonyms
STRONGEST
cynicism despair distrust gloom grief hopelessness melancholy sadness unhappiness
STRONG
dejection depression despondency dyspepsia gloominess glumness
WEAK
dark side dim view expectation of worst gloomy outlook low spirits
Antonyms
STRONGEST
cheer confidence faith happiness joy joyfulness trust
WEAK
optimism

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.

March’s nearly 10% decline pushed sentiment to extreme pessimism.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

The European Commission’s Economic Sentiment Indicator fell to 96.6 in March, reflecting increased eurozone pessimism amid the war in Iran.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

But some investors think the pessimism is overdone.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

Middle East hostilities have increased consumer pessimism about the economy, according to data released Friday.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 27, 2026

Townshend replied with encouraging words, trying not to show his pessimism.

From "Ambushed!" by Gail Jarrow

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.