Hopeful

Definition

Hopeful typically describes a feeling or expression of optimism or a desire for a certain outcome.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhoʊpfəl/
• Respelling: HOPE-fuhl (with "HOPE" as in "hope" and "fuhl" as in "full")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhəʊpfəl/
• Respelling: HOPE-fuhl (with "HOPE" as in "hope" and "fuhl" as in "full")

In both dialects, "hopeful" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "HOPE." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "HOPE-fuhl."

Etymology

Derived from the Middle English word "hope" (meaning "a feeling of expectation and desire") + "-ful", a suffix indicating "full of". The term "hope" has Old English origins, stemming from the word "hoppian" which means "to wish, expect, or look forward".

Derivatives

• Hopefully (adverb)
• Hopefulness (noun)
• Hope (noun, verb)
• Hopeless (adjective)
• Hopelessly (adverb)

Synonyms

• Optimistic
• Positive
• Sanguine

Antonyms

• Pessimistic
• Despondent
• Hopeless

Usage

The term "hopeful" is used to describe a positive expectation about the future. It can be applied to people, situations, or outcomes that inspire confidence or optimism.

Related Terms

• Expectation
• Aspiration
• Ambition
• Desire
• Confidence

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Feeling Optimism: Having or showing a feeling of optimism about a future event.
  • Example: She felt hopeful about her chances of getting the job.

• Inspiring Optimism: Likely to succeed or yield a positive result.
  • Example: The weather forecast for the weekend looks hopeful for our outdoor event.

Noun

• Person with Optimism: Someone who is hopeful or expects a positive outcome.
  • Example: The young hopefuls auditioned for the talent show with great enthusiasm.

• Aspirant: A person aspiring for a particular position or role.
  • Example: The political hopefuls campaigned vigorously ahead of the elections.

Note: The term "hopeful", while primarily associated with a positive emotion, also refers to individuals aspiring towards something, emphasizing its broad applicability in various contexts.