Faustian Meaning in English

word

US

UK

Definition

Describes a situation or decision where someone is willing to sacrifice morals or long-term values for power, success, or short-term gain, based on the story of Faust who made a deal with the devil.

Usage & Nuances

Used in formal, literary, or philosophical contexts. Refers specifically to choices involving deep moral or ethical compromise for ambition. Collocates: 'Faustian bargain', 'Faustian pact', 'Faustian deal'. Not used for ordinary, minor decisions.

• Spanish: faustiano
• Portuguese (BR): faustiano
• Portuguese (PT): faustiano
• Chinese (Simplified): 浮士德式的 - 与魔鬼交易的
• Chinese (Traditional): 浮士德式的 - 與魔鬼交易的
• Hindi: फॉस्टियन (पाप या सौदेबाजी से संबंधित)
• Arabic: فاوستي
• Bengali: ফাউস্টিয়ান
• Russian: фаустовский
• Japanese: ファウスト的
• Vietnamese: faustian - giống như Faust
• Korean: 파우스트적인
• Turkish: Faustvari - Faustyen
• Urdu: فاوسٹیائی
• Indonesian: faustian - seperti Faust

Example Sentences

He made a Faustian bargain for his career.

basic

The company made a Faustian choice to grow quickly.

basic

She avoided a Faustian path in her life.

basic

It was a Faustian deal—success came, but at a heavy price.

natural

You’re facing a Faustian dilemma: fame now or your principles?

natural

Politicians sometimes make Faustian promises to get elected.

natural