A foregone conclusion means a result that is certain before it happens. The correct answer is this meaning because the expression is used figuratively, not only by its literal words.

Examples:

• With such strong evidence, the verdict seemed a foregone conclusion.
• In an HSC essay, A foregone conclusion can express this meaning: a result that is certain before it happens.
• When this expression appears in a passage, connect A foregone conclusion with the idea of a result that is certain before it happens.