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Idiomatic phrases like “fait accompli” are part of figurative language, often used in informal settings to convey thoughts or feelings. This reference will help you understand what “fait accompli” means, its origin, examples of usage, and alternative expressions with the same meaning.
Fait Accompli Meaning, Origin and Usage
Key Takeaways
- “Fait accompli” means a completed action or decision that cannot be changed, leaving others no choice but to accept it.
Fait Accompli Meaning
The meaning of the French phrase “fait accompli” is having to approve of a situation or an outcome that has already happened without having a say in the matter or the ability to reverse the outcome. When directly translated from French to English, this term means a proven fact that has been accomplished prior.
Origin of this Term
The phrase “fait accompli” entered the English language from French. It first appeared in English literature in 1845. Richard Ford, an English writer, used it in one of his publications based in Spain. This phrase has since been adopted into English usage, retaining its original French spelling and meaning.
In everyday language, “fait accompli” describes something that is finished before you know about it. You find yourself in situations where decisions are made, and you have to deal with the results.
The term provides a practical way to express situations where changes have occurred without your involvement. You might encounter this term in newspapers, business reports, or personal conversations.
Usage of “Fait Accompli”
You might use it in various situations:
- Decision-Making: When a decision is made without input from others, leaving them no choice but to accept it.
- Diplomacy: In international relations, it can describe actions taken by a country that force other nations to accept a new situation.
- Business: When a company makes a move, like a merger or acquisition, that employees or stakeholders must accept.
Example Situations:
- Someone announcing a move to another city without prior discussion.
- A new policy implemented by management without prior employee consultation.
These scenarios show how “fait accompli” can apply in different contexts where decisions are final and must be accepted by all involved.
Related Terms to “Fait Accompli”
Understanding various related terms can help you grasp the concept of a “fait accompli” even better. Here are some terms you might encounter:
- Inevitable: This word refers to something that is bound to happen. Much like a fait accompli, it suggests that an event cannot be avoided or altered.
- Irrevocable: If something is described as irrevocable, it means it cannot be undone or changed. It often implies permanence, similar to how a fait accompli indicates a situation that is beyond alteration.
- Precedent: A precedent is something that happened earlier and serves as an example. While not identical to a fait accompli, a precedent can set a standard that others might follow, making future changes difficult.
- Accomplished Fact: This is a direct translation of fait accompli. It emphasizes that the action has been completed and cannot be reversed.
Other Ways to Say “Fait Accompli”
There are many other ways “fair accompli” can be said in a literal sense. As a matter of fact, the term itself is quite literal, it is just in a different language. The term “fait accompli” can also be said what’s done is done or it happened and there is nothing that can be done to change it.
List of “Fait Accompli” synonyms:
- Done deal
- Completed act
- Happening
- Occurrence
- Finish
- Completed
“Fait Accompli” Examples
Examples in Statements
A statement made in the local paper about a recent business merger.
- “The merger of the two businesses is now a fait accompli.”
A statement made by a sportscaster on the radio.
- “Well, it’s official folks. The season is now a fait accompli.”
Examples in Conversation
A conversation between two co-workers.
- Co-worker 1: I can’t believe that they took away all those benefits and incentives we used to receive working here.
- Co-worker 2: Well, no sense talking about it. It is now a fait accompli. Let’s just get back to work.
A conversation between two students.
- Student 1: I can’t believe that Professor Blatt gave us so much homework during finals week.
- Student 2: Honestly, Kaitlyn. There is no point in bringing it up. It is a fait accompli.
Other examples:
- After the ceremony a marriage is a fait accompli.
- She married the man her parents disapproved of and presented them with a fait accompli.
- From analog to digital technology change has become a fait accompli.
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