1.
accomplished fact; fait accompli
Something that has already been done or decided and is therefore difficult to reverse or challenge. Often used when someone creates a situation to force acceptance of their actions.
Equivalent to the French legal term "fait accompli." Describes a situation that has already been established and is difficult to undo or reverse. Often carries a strategic connotation — someone deliberately creates facts on the ground to prevent others from objecting.
Common collocations
- 既成事実を作る: to create a fait accompli
- 既成事実にする: to make it a done deal
- 既成事実を積み重ねる: to pile up accomplished facts
- 既成事実として受け入れる: to accept as an accomplished fact
Usage
Often used in political, business, and interpersonal contexts where someone acts first and asks for forgiveness (or acceptance) later. The phrase can carry a slightly manipulative nuance.
Etymology
既成 (already established) + 事実 (fact) — a fact that has already been made.