“Faustian Bargain” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 16, 2024 by Liam Daniel

A “Faustian Bargain” is an intriguing phrase that you might encounter in conversations or writing. This reference will guide you through understanding the meaning of “Faustian Bargain,” real-world examples, and alternative expressions that convey the same ideas. You will discover how this phrase can be applied in everyday dialogue, enhancing your language skills and comprehension.

Faustian Bargain Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • A Faustian bargain is a deal where someone sacrifices their morals or long-term well-being for short-term gain, power, or success, often leading to negative consequences.
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Faustian Bargain Meaning

A “Faustian bargain” refers to a deal in which someone sacrifices their moral integrity, values, or long-term well-being in exchange for short-term gain, power, or success.

In modern usage, a Faustian bargain describes any situation where a person makes a risky or morally questionable decision in pursuit of immediate rewards, often at the cost of future consequences or ethical compromise.

Origin of this Phrase

The idiom was derived from a story written in 1587. In the story, a man named Faust made a deal with the Devil. In exchange for his soul, the Devil would grant Faust power and knowledge and, thus, a bargain was struck.

Usage of “Faustian Bargain”

  • In business or career decisions:
    • “By accepting the unethical deal to secure a promotion, he made a Faustian bargain that eventually cost him his reputation.”
  • In politics or power struggles:
    • “The politician struck a Faustian bargain, gaining power by making promises that compromised his principles.”
  • In personal choices:
    • “She made a Faustian bargain by choosing fame over her family, and now she’s facing the consequences.”
  • In discussions of technology or societal advancements:
    • “Some argue that the reliance on surveillance technology is a Faustian bargain, trading privacy for security.”
  • In literature or media criticism:
    • “The character’s pact with the villain was a clear Faustian bargain, trading loyalty for short-term gains.”

Related Terms to “Faustian Bargain”

  • “Deal with the devil” – Refers to making a morally dangerous or unethical agreement for personal gain.
  • “Selling your soul” – Implies sacrificing one’s integrity or morals for personal benefits.
  • “Moral compromise” – Refers to the act of sacrificing ethical principles for a perceived advantage.
  • “The ends justify the means” – A belief that the outcome can validate questionable methods used to achieve it.
  • “Devil’s pact” – Similar to a Faustian bargain, implying a dangerous or morally compromising agreement.
  • “Short-term gain, long-term pain” – Refers to choices that benefit in the short run but have harmful future consequences.
  • “Bargain with the devil” – Another way to express making a dangerous or unethical deal for personal gain.
  • “Quid pro quo” – While more neutral, it can imply an exchange that may involve questionable trade-offs.
  • “Trade-off” – Refers to making a choice where one benefit is gained at the expense of something else, sometimes morally.
  • “Slippery slope” – Describes a decision or action that leads to worsening conditions or moral decline.

Other Ways to Say “Faustian Bargain”

As is the case with many phrases, there are other ways available to say this phrase and convey the same message. Other ways you can say this phrase include:

  • Make a deal with the devil
  • I’d sell my soul
  • I’d give up everything I have

“Faustian Bargain” Examples

Examples in Statements

A statement made in the local paper by a football team’s coach regarding their losing season.

  • “I feel I will need to make a Faustian bargain to win a game this year.”

A statement made by a woman during an interview with a local newspaper.

  • “The jackpot is the highest it has ever been. I would love to win. I just don’t want to have to make a Faustian bargain to do it.”

Examples in Conversation

A conversation between two students regarding the upcoming finals at school.

  • Friend 1: I need to get a good grade on this final or I am not going to pass.
  • Friend 2: You and me both. I need to get a B or better.
  • Friend 1: Maybe we should both make a Faustian bargain so we don’t fail.

A conversation between two female friends regarding one’s husband.

  • Friend 1: I think Bob might be cheating on me.
  • Friend 2: Really? Bob? Do you think he would do that?
  • Friend 1: I don’t know, but he has been coming home late claiming its because of work. I would be willing to make a Faustian bargain to find out.

Helpful examples:

  • In making a pact with this devil, Lancaster County made a Faustian bargain.
  • Even bonuses are back, policy makers have made a Faustian bargain.
  • The town has struck a Faustian bargain, they contend – trading something of its small-town soul for success.
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