pessimistic thoughts

USAGE SUMMARY

"pessimistic thoughts" is correct and usable in written English.
It refers to negative or gloomy thoughts about a situation or the future. Example: She couldn't shake the pessimistic thoughts that kept creeping into her mind.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

His pessimistic thoughts on the transitory nature of this world were uttered in an unpretentious kind of verse that rejected all current notions of style and technical finesse.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I suppose I could say the book itself was almost annoyingly repetitive and the pessimistic thoughts going through the main character's head were just depressing at times.

The Guardian

Throughout the book there are highs and lows with Holden, the main character, as he frustrates with his pessimistic thoughts and ideas but sometimes he surprises with sparks of decency and selflessness which made him more interesting to read about.

The Guardian

Martin E. P. Seligman, a widely published author and research psychologist at the University of Pennsylvania, tries to prevent depression in freshmen by teaching those at greatest risk how to defend themselves against pessimistic thoughts.

The New York Times

On the specific issue of energy, your blogger has occasionally aired some pessimistic thoughts along these lines.So it was nice to read a more optimistic take on the issue from Tim Harford in his new book, "The Undercover Economist Strikes Back".

The Economist

Yes I wrote this intro by being well aware that "My Guy Avery Bradleyy could become a restricted free agent this summer and might very well not be back with the Boston Celtics next season but my brackets are already busted and I don't need to think such depressing, pessimistic thoughts right now.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Here is a dreadfully ripe and pessimistic thought: Did the chimps become infected by a dose of concentrated mankind?

The New Yorker

If so, that deeply pessimistic thought remains unassuaged by the assurance that "Book after book I kept my word …" Of course, it's an effect of time that the world the librarians seemed to be "unfussily establishing" was never built, and that the future has become the dated dream of the past.

The Guardian - Books

He further suggests that once we feel we're familiar with the pessimistic thought patterns we run through our heads, we begin to challenge them (ibid).

Huffington Post

For years, I've been reading alarmed commentators like Martin Wolf of The Financial Times and thinking them a bit on the outer edge of pessimistic thought.

Huffington Post

Like an eager but not very bright graduate student, he compiled the pessimistic thought of twentieth-century critics of mass culture, and applied it to contemporary case studies like Barack Obama's election, professional wrestling, and happiness studies.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about mental health, use "pessimistic thoughts" to describe a cognitive symptom of depression or anxiety, rather than labeling someone as simply "pessimistic."

Common error

Avoid attributing all negative outcomes solely to "pessimistic thoughts". Consider external factors and systemic issues that may contribute to the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pessimistic thoughts" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "pessimistic" modifies the noun "thoughts". It describes a specific type of thinking characterized by negativity and a lack of hope. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pessimistic thoughts" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe negative thinking patterns. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic articles. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, its formal usage is more prevalent due to its frequent association with mental health discussions and analytical observations. When using this phrase, consider its connotations and the potential impact on your audience. Be mindful of external factors beyond pessimistic thinking when discussing negative outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

negative mindset

Replaces specific thoughts with a more general disposition or attitude.

gloomy outlook

Shifts from individual thoughts to an overall perspective on the future.

bleak perspective

Emphasizes the despondent nature of the viewpoint.

hopeless feelings

Focuses on the emotional aspect rather than the cognitive.

defeatist attitude

Highlights a predisposition to expect failure.

cynical beliefs

Suggests a distrustful and doubtful view of others' motives.

dismal reflections

Replaces immediate thoughts with prolonged contemplation of negativity.

melancholy musings

Conveys a sense of sadness and contemplation about the world.

somber contemplations

Focuses on deep and serious thoughts often associated with negativity.

despairing ideas

Emphasizes the hopelessness and lack of optimism in the thoughts.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "pessimistic thoughts" in a more positive way?

Instead of "pessimistic thoughts", consider using terms like "realistic concerns" or "cautious considerations" depending on the specific context.

What are some common triggers for /s/pessimistic+thinking?

Common triggers can include stressful events, negative news, or difficult personal relationships. Addressing these triggers can help manage "pessimistic thoughts".

How do "pessimistic thoughts" relate to mental health conditions?

"Pessimistic thoughts" are often a symptom of depression or anxiety disorders. If these thoughts are persistent and interfere with daily life, seeking professional help is important.

What's the difference between "pessimistic thoughts" and "realistic assessment"?

"Pessimistic thoughts" often involve expecting the worst outcome without sufficient evidence, while a "realistic assessment" considers all possible outcomes based on available information.