Defeatism

Defeatism is a belief or attitude that emphasizes or anticipates failure and discouragement, often resulting in a lack of effort or resignation in the face of potential challenges. This mindset tends to focus on the belief that setbacks are inevitable, leading to a passive acceptance of adverse situations rather than actively seeking to overcome them.

Defeatism meaning with examples

• In discussions about economic reform, the prevalent defeatism among citizens has resulted in a lack of enthusiasm for proposed changes, with many believing that nothing can significantly improve their situation.
• Despite the team's initial optimism, the coach noted a sense of defeatism creeping into the players' mindset after three consecutive losses, which he worked diligently to counteract with positive reinforcement.
• The documentary highlighted how defeatism can pervade communities struggling with poverty, stifling ambition and preventing individuals from pursuing opportunities that could lead to better lives.
• As the project faced several unexpected setbacks, the team leader was concerned that defeatism was setting in, which could hinder their creativity and motivation to innovate alternative solutions.
• In her motivational speech, the author addressed the dangers of defeatism, encouraging her audience to view failures as learning experiences rather than signs of unavoidable defeat.