Synonyms for

Hopeful

Verb / ˈhəʊpfʌl / Another word for hopeful — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

feeling or inspiring optimism about a future event.

Synonyms & similar words

wannabe aspirer aspirant bright wannabee promising hopeless optimistic confident positive encouraging promising bright cheerful upbeat sanguine expectant anticipatory hope-filled hope-giving hope-inspiring hope-promoting hope-rising hopeful-hearted hopeful-spirited hope-mongering hope-inducing

Synonyms by register

Formal

optimistic confident expectant assured

Informal

upbeat positive looking forward cheery

Literary

buoyant sanguine promising

Antonyms

despairing pessimistic hopeless doubtful discouraged gloomy cynical

Common collocations

  • hopeful sign
  • hopeful outlook
  • hopeful candidate
  • hopeful future
  • hopeful about
  • hopeful for
  • hopeful spirit

Word family

noun hope
verb hope
adverb hopefully

Usage note

While 'hopefully' is often used to express hope, its traditional use is to mean 'in a hopeful manner'. It is sometimes considered a dangling modifier when used to express the speaker's hope.

Example sentences

  1. She was hopeful that her parents would buy her a new bike for her birthday.
  2. He remained hopeful that he would find a job soon.
  3. The team was hopeful that they would win the game.
  4. The doctor gave her a hopeful prognosis for her recovery.
  5. Despite the setbacks, she remained hopeful that things would get better.

Quotes

  • Hopeful thinking can get you out of your fear zone and into your appreciation zone.
  • Hopeful, optimistic people don't get sick as often, don't die as quickly, and have a better quality of life.
  • Hopeful thinking gives you energy and makes you feel good.

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