Pangloss (en. Pangloss)

/pɑŋɡlɔs/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

noun

A person who defends the idea that everything is for the best in the best of all possible worlds.

The pangloss of the team insisted that the project would succeed despite the difficulties.

Le pangloss de l'équipe insistait sur le fait que le projet allait réussir malgré les difficultés.

An individual who ignores negative realities in favor of an optimistic outlook.

In every group, there is always a pangloss who refuses to face the truth.

Dans chaque groupe, il y a toujours un pangloss qui refuse de voir la vérité en face.

The word 'pangloss' comes from the character Pangloss in 'Candide' written by Voltaire, who represents excessive optimism.

To be a pangloss

To have an excessively optimistic attitude in the face of a difficult situation.

Être un pangloss

Panglossian optimism

An unrealistic optimism based on naive beliefs.

Optimisme panglossien

illusion

A false or misleading belief about reality.

illusion

optimism

An attitude that involves looking on the bright side of things.

optisme

naivety

The state of someone who lacks judgment and experience.

naïveté

Excessively optimistic

This individual is a true pangloss; he thinks everything will be fine without any preparation.

Cet individu est un véritable pangloss, il pense que tout ira bien sans aucune préparation.

Unrealistic dreamer

Don't be a pangloss; face the facts!

Ne sois pas un pangloss, regarde les faits en face !