Here are some key elements of a fait accompli:
* Irreversible: The action is complete and cannot be undone.
* Preemptive: The decision was made without consulting others who might have been affected.
* Sudden: It often comes as a surprise to those who are impacted.
The phrase is French, literally meaning "accomplished fact."
Here are some examples of how "fait accompli" can be used:
* "The CEO's sudden resignation was a fait accompli, leaving the board scrambling for a replacement." This implies that the CEO had already made their decision to leave, leaving the board with little choice but to accept it.
* "The government's decision to raise taxes was a fait accompli, despite widespread public disapproval." This means the government had already made the decision and implemented it before the public could voice their objections.
* "The company's acquisition of its competitor was a fait accompli, effectively ending any chance of competition in the market." This implies that the acquisition was complete and irreversible, leaving no room for the competitor to contest it.
Essentially, a fait accompli is a situation where the power dynamic is tilted in favor of one party who has taken action without seeking input or consent from others.