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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective pessimistic differ from other similar words?

The words cynical and misanthropic are common synonyms of pessimistic. While all three words mean "deeply distrustful," pessimistic implies having a gloomy, distrustful view of life.

pessimistic about the future

When could cynical be used to replace pessimistic?

The synonyms cynical and pessimistic are sometimes interchangeable, but cynical implies having a sneering disbelief in sincerity or integrity.

cynical about politicians' motives

Where would misanthropic be a reasonable alternative to pessimistic?

The meanings of misanthropic and pessimistic largely overlap; however, misanthropic suggests a rooted distrust and dislike of human beings and their society.

a solitary and misanthropic artist

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pessimistic Dogs with pessimistic personalities are better than more optimistic dogs at detecting cancer. Bruce Headlam, New Yorker, 13 Oct. 2025 The discovery report recorded that the top drawer of the desk contains the provisioner’s ledger and the captain’s expedition journal, but the Danish team who found the ship were pessimistic about the likelihood of the books surviving the tow. Literary Hub, 10 Oct. 2025 The Wine Country actress, who performed on SNL for seven seasons from 1999 to 2006, recalled the origins of her profusely pessimistic character during an interview with her former castmate Amy Poehler on Good Hang. Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 10 Oct. 2025 Investors and ordinary Russians are increasingly pessimistic. J.d. Capelouto, semafor.com, 9 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pessimistic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pessimistic
Adjective
  • All that’s left is some hopeless cringe, stunt guest stars and unfunny jokes.
    Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Oct. 2025
  • All that's left is some hopeless cringe, stunt guest stars and unfunny jokes.
    Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 23 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Their sister Cynthia has a somewhat more cynical attitude, and the priceless body language that goes with it.
    Sheri Linden, HollywoodReporter, 27 Oct. 2025
  • Some complain that the boisterous, anthemic version on the album belies the cynical point of view of a Vietnam veteran.
    Bill Goodykoontz, AZCentral.com, 24 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The negative response to Beijing’s tactics also prompted the G7 to vow a united front against the export controls, Yardeni pointed out.
    Dave Smith, Fortune, 25 Oct. 2025
  • If the bat is negative, individuals will not need post-exposure treatment.
    Caroline Neal, Louisville Courier Journal, 24 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pessimistic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pessimistic. Accessed 30 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on pessimistic

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