pessimistic

adjective

pes·si·mis·tic ˌpe-sə-ˈmi-stik

also ˌpe-zə-

Synonyms of pessimistic next

: of, relating to, or characterized by pessimism : gloomy

pessimistically

ˌpe-sə-ˈmi-sti-k(ə-)lē

also ˌpe-zə-

adverb

Choose the Right Synonym for pessimistic

cynical, misanthropic, pessimistic mean deeply distrustful.

cynical implies having a sneering disbelief in sincerity or integrity.

cynical about politicians' motives

misanthropic suggests a rooted distrust and dislike of human beings and their society.

a solitary and misanthropic artist

pessimistic implies having a gloomy, distrustful view of life.

pessimistic about the future

Examples of pessimistic in a Sentence

Most doctors were pessimistic that a cure could be found. The film gives a very pessimistic view of human nature. He has an extremely negative and pessimistic attitude.

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Notably, Democrats are particularly pessimistic about the future of their own party, while Republicans are riding high. —

Nathaniel Rakich, ABC News, 5 Dec. 2024 That tracks with longstanding findings that the generation is pessimistic about the right now but upbeat about the future. —

Ben Berkowitz, Axios, 3 Dec. 2024 The economy was the top issue for voters in November's election, with polling consistently finding that voters were pessimistic about its state. —

Khaleda Rahman, Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2024 Speaking in a press conference before Leverkusen’s Bundesliga game against Heidenheim this weekend, head coach Xabi Alonso was pessimistic about his forwards chances of returned before the end of 2024. —

Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, The Athletic, 22 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for pessimistic