What does “Foregone conclusion” mean?
"Foregone conclusion" means an outcome that is already certain or inevitable.
What context can I use the in?
Example
After the team's star player got injured, it was a foregone conclusion that they would lose the game.
Example
With all the evidence against him, it was a foregone conclusion that he would be found guilty.
Example
Given their track record, it's a foregone conclusion that they will win the championship
Is “Foregone conclusion” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Foregone conclusion” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Foregone conclusion” effectively in context?
You can use "Foregone Conclusion" to describe a situation where the outcome is already known or expected. It emphasizes that there is no doubt or uncertainty about the result. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this idiom:
- 1Sports
After the team's star player got injured, it was a foregone conclusion that they would lose the game.
- 2Legal Proceedings
With all the evidence against him, it was a foregone conclusion that he would be found guilty.
- 3Predictable Outcomes
Given their track record, it's a foregone conclusion that they will win the championship.
Similar phrases to “Foregone conclusion”:
Certain to happen; unavoidable
Example
His resignation was inevitable after the scandal.
Open-and-shut case
A situation or legal case that is easily resolved or decided
Example
The evidence was overwhelming, making it an open-and-shut case.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Foregone conclusion” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Foregone Conclusion" can be traced back to the 17th century. It comes from the legal term 'foregone,' which means 'previously determined' or 'already settled.' In legal contexts, a foregone conclusion refers to a decision or outcome that is already certain before any evidence or arguments are presented.
Is “Foregone conclusion” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Foregone Conclusion" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express certainty or inevitability about an outcome. It is particularly common in discussions about sports, legal matters, and predictable situations.
What tone does “Foregone conclusion” have?
"Foregone Conclusion" conveys a tone of certainty and finality. It implies that there is no room for doubt or debate about the outcome. It can be used to express confidence in a prediction or to highlight the obviousness of a particular result.
Can “Foregone conclusion” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Foregone Conclusion" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional writing.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'With all the evidence against him, it was a foregone conclusion that he would be found guilty.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It's a foregone conclusion!' to imply that something is certain.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- no-brainer
- sure thing
- gone conclusion
- settled matter
- decided outcome
Antonyms
- undecided
- up in the air
- unpredictable
- uncertain outcome
- open question
