🛠️ Foregone Conclusion: Already Nailed Down 🦉
Definition: A result that is already known or predicted and therefore taken for granted.
Origin & Background
This term stems from Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, Othello. In Act 3, Scene 3, after Othello hears Iago’s deceptive tale about Cassio’s supposed sleep-talking of an affair with Desdemona, he states that this “dream” is a “foregone conclusion”—implying that it unequivocally proves Desdemona’s unfaithfulness, as Iago intended for him to believe.
Fast forward four centuries, the phrase persists in its usage: “But it could be argued that it was a surprise so many Spaniards were prepared to take part in a vote which was a foregone conclusion” (Economist, Feb. 26, 2005).
Synonyms & Related Terms
- Done deal
- Inevitable outcome
- Predictable result
- Settled matter
- Preordained
- Dead certainty
Antonyms
- Uncertain
- Ambiguous
- Unpredictable
- Questionable result
- Up in the air
- Toss-up
Idioms and Expressions
- The writing’s on the wall: It’s obvious that something is going to happen.
- In the bag: A positive outcome is assured.
- Sure thing: Success is guaranteed.
- Set in stone: Unchangeable and certain.
Humor-Filled Quotes
“A ‘foregone conclusion’ is just a predictable parking ticket for the parking lot of life.” – Max Boredomydro.
“My husband says he knows what I’m going to say before I say it. I say that’s a ‘foregone conclusion’ of his own making.” – Gossiper Philadelphia.
Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
Literature & Books:
- Othello by William Shakespeare
- No Country for Old Men by Cormac McCarthy
Songs:
- “It’s All Over Now” by The Rolling Stones
- “Fate” by Chaka Khan
Poems:
- “An Agony. As Now” by Amiri Baraka
- “Fatal Interview” by Edna St. Vincent Millay
Movies:
- Final Destination series
- No Country for Old Men (2007)
Inspirational Farewell:
In the grand theater of life, some outcomes may seem etched into destiny’s script, but remember—even in a “foregone conclusion,” your unique part can bring an unexpected twist. 🌟
E. L. Quent 📚 Always Play the Plot 📖
