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Showing results for pessimistic. Search instead for pessimisti.
Definitions

pessimistic

[pes-uh-mis-tik] / ˌpɛs əˈmɪs tɪk /
ADJECTIVE
expecting bad outcome
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bleak depressed despondent discouraged fatalistic gloomy glum sad
WEAK
cynical dark dejected despairing distrustful downhearted foreboding hopeless melancholy misanthropic morbid morose resigned sullen troubled worried
Antonyms
STRONGEST
bright cheerful encouraged encouraging happy joyful sunny
WEAK
confident optimistic trusting

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.

Negotiators are pessimistic that Iran will meet Trump’s demand to allow traffic to flow freely through the Strait of Hormuz, Journal reported.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

Mayer was pessimistic about the Shields fight happening, pointing to the weight as an issue.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

However, the decline in confidence will likely also damp growth, since more pessimistic businesses tend to invest less, while worried households save more.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

This pattern also shows up in bonds, where investors have been even more reactive and pessimistic than their equity counterparts,” said Mark Hackett, the chief market strategist for Nationwide.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 25, 2026

I was pessimistic about the marriage and I thought it only fair to inform him of my feelings.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela