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Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing

Fait Accompli

noun / fay-tuh-kom-PLEE / Medium
Meaning

A thing that has already been done or decided before those affected can alter it; a done deal presented as irreversible

Origin / Etymology

French, literally 'accomplished fact'; from fait (done) + accompli (accomplished)

Synonyms
Done deal Irreversible act Accomplished fact Foregone conclusion
Antonyms
Open question Negotiable outcome Pending decision
Example Sentence
"China's construction of artificial islands in the South China Sea was widely regarded as a fait accompli, leaving littoral states with limited legal recourse."
🎯 UPSC Usage

Highly useful in GS-2 (IR) and GS-3 (security) answers on territorial disputes, unilateral annexations, and diplomatic coercion. Apply when discussing Crimea, South China Sea, or India's rapid revocation of Article 370, events where speed of action foreclosed reversal. Also useful in Essay paper to argue about democratic deficit when executive decisions pre-empt parliamentary debate.

Relevant Subjects
International Relations
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