Pessimistic

easy

pes-ih-MIS-tik

adjective

Definition

Tending to see the worst aspect of things or believe that the worst will happen

Examples

The pessimistic forecast predicted economic decline.
His pessimistic attitude brought down team morale.

Synonyms

gloomycynicaldefeatistdespondent

Antonyms

optimistichopefulsanguinebuoyant

Categories

GRE Tip

Pessimistic is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "gloomy" or "cynical" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "optimistic".

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