fait accompli

Definition

Something which has already happened, before those affected had the chance to raise objections or queries; especially, such a thing that cannot be undone.

Etymology

Borrowed from French fait accompli (“a completed fact”), from fait (“a fact”) + accompli (“completed; accomplished”).

Example Sentences

• "Thanks to a bureaucratic fait accompli, the demolition was already approved and has already started."
• "Mr. Quiverful's appointment to the hospital was, however, a fait accompli, and Mr. Harding's acquiescence in that appointment was not less so."
• "“In quarters where the fait accompli is an object of solicitude,” said Yeovil."