How to Pronounce "faustian bargain"
expression
ˈfɔstʃən/ /ˈbɑɹɡən/, /ˈbɑɹɡɪn
FAWST-chuhn BAR-guhn
ˈfaʊstɪən/ /bˈɑːɡɪn
FOWST-ee-uhn BAR-gin
Definition
A deal where someone sacrifices their morals or values for personal gain, often with serious long-term negative consequences. The term comes from the legend of Faust, who traded his soul to the devil for knowledge and power.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈfɔstʃən/ /ˈbɑɹɡən/, /ˈbɑɹɡɪn
British English
ˈfaʊstɪən/ /bˈɑːɡɪn
Simplified Pronunciation
US
FAWST-chuhn BAR-guhn
UK
FOWST-ee-uhn BAR-gin
Listen in Context
Making a faustian bargain means choosing short-term gain over long-term values.
He entered a faustian bargain to get ahead in his career.
The company made a faustian bargain by ignoring environmental rules for profit.
Many believe the politician made a faustian bargain to stay in power.