Hope

Definition

Hope is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a feeling of expectation and desire for a particular thing to happen. As a verb, it means to want something to happen or be true and think that it could happen or be true.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hoʊp/
• Respelling: HOHP

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /həʊp/
• Respelling: HOHP

Etymology

The word "hope" originates from Old English "hopian," meaning "to wish or desire." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*hopōną" (to hope) and is related to Middle Low German "hopen." The term has been used since the 12th century to describe both an emotional state and an action.

Derivatives

• Hopeful (adjective)
• Hopeless (adjective)
• Hopefully (adverb)
• Hopelessness (noun)
• Hopefulness (noun)

Synonyms

• Expectation
• Optimism
• Aspiration

Antonyms

• Despair
• Hopelessness
• None

Usage

The noun "hope" is often used to express a positive outlook, e.g., "She has hope for a better future." The verb is used to express an active desire, e.g., "I hope you succeed in your endeavors."

Related Terms

• Faith: Complete trust or confidence in someone or something.
• Dream: A cherished aspiration or ambition.
• Wish: A strong desire for something to happen.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen: Refers to optimism about future events.
  • Example: "She expressed hope that the project would succeed."
• A person or thing that gives cause for hope: Refers to something or someone that inspires optimism.
  • Example: "The team's new player is their greatest hope for victory."

Verb

• To want something to happen or be true: Refers to actively wishing for a desired outcome.
  • Example: "I hope to see you again soon."
• To trust or rely on: Expresses belief in a positive outcome or someone's ability.
  • Example: "We hope that you will make the right decision."