Foregone

Foregone, an adjective, describes something that has already happened or been decided, and therefore is inevitable or certain. It implies a conclusion that is already reached, often implying that the outcome is predictable. It suggests a sense of resignation or acceptance of the existing situation or a predetermined consequence. It highlights the futility of attempting to change something that's already set in motion or a known conclusion. It can also refer to a loss or something that is waived or given up.

Foregone meaning with examples

• The championship match was a foregone conclusion; the home team was undefeated all season and heavily favored. The rival team's fans felt the competition was already lost, making it difficult to generate any real excitement. Their coach warned of complacency, but the foregone victory had impacted the team's performance.
• With the evidence presented, the guilty verdict seemed foregone. The defense lawyer attempted to offer other perspectives, but it was not convincing. The jury, with little deliberation, found the defendant guilty based on the overwhelming weight of the evidence that made the final outcome foregone.
• After weeks of negotiation and debate, the council recognized that war was foregone with the neighbouring nation. Protests erupted in the street, and a majority hoped for a diplomatic solution. The leaders acknowledged that due to the actions of their aggressors, a military engagement appeared foregone.
• She knew, as she watched the ship set sail, that her opportunity was foregone to visit and join her friends abroad. She would instead stay and complete her studies. The acceptance of the foregone outcome brought a degree of peace, as she settled into her revised plans.
• The judge declared the election as a foregone outcome, when he learned of the irregularities. This situation could not be rectified, and the only course of action was to accept this fact. The political landscape will be changed due to the foregone political result.