foregone conclusion

American  

noun

1. an inevitable conclusion or result.

2. a conclusion, opinion, or decision formed in advance of proper consideration of evidence, arguments, etc.

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foregone conclusion British  

noun

1. an inevitable result or conclusion

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Etymology

Origin of foregone conclusion

First recorded in 1595–1605

Example Sentences

Passage has gone from a foregone conclusion early in the year to a long shot, even though lawmakers hope to hold a committee vote in the next month.

From Barron's • Apr. 17, 2026

“I think endemicity is a foregone conclusion and measles will circulate at the level it did in the 1990s,” Adalja said.

From Salon • Apr. 8, 2026

California currently has the highest average gasoline price at $5.14, but the $6 price level as an average for the state is not a foregone conclusion just yet, De Haan said.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 9, 2026

That wait goes on, but a defeat should not exactly have been a foregone conclusion - even if Aston Villa are flying in third place.

From BBC • Jan. 25, 2026

And when they get there, they use cliches. foregone conclusion.

From "Woe Is I" by Patricia T. O'Conner

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