fait accompli
Say it: fet ah-KOM-plee /ˌfeɪt əˈkɒmpliː/ · noun phrase
What “fait accompli” means
Something already done that others must now accept.
More precisely: Something already decided or done, leaving others no option but to accept it.
Example: “By the time we heard about the merger, it was a fait accompli.”
When to use it
For a decision presented after action has already been taken, usually formally and often with annoyance.
Memory trick
French for accomplished fact: it has already happened before you get a say.
Similar words
done deal, accomplished fact
Where it comes from
French, 'accomplished fact'.
Quick check
Your flatmate replaces the sofa before asking you, then says it cannot be returned. You're presented with…
a fait accompli or a proposal?
Show the answer
a fait accompli
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