If there were any word in the English language that could be forgotten, my choice would be the world 'inevitable'. It is used habitually to refer to ends that are not inevitable, and is used to discourage others from arguing against something. It is used simply as a morale-basher.

In the mid to late 1990s, we were told by pro-EU campaigners that Britain's use of the Euro was inevitable. Those who opposed the Euro were supposed to leave the debate with their tails between their legs because they were wasting their time. Instead, the supporters of Sterling fought an excellent campaign, and the government has put the Euro off the agenda. What was once 'inevitable' is now extremely unlikely. Fortunately, I have not yet seen anyone claim that British adoption of the EU constitution is inevitable.

I noticed at the weekend Action on Smoking and Health describe a government ban on smoking in pubs and restaurants as 'inevitable'. It certainly might happen. But people also said a ban in Washington was inevitable, and these people helped defeat it - for now. The power of individuals to beat the 'inevitable' should not be underestimated.