C1noun 2K

Optimism

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈɒptɪmɪzəm/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈɑːptɪmɪzəm/"]/

Meaning of Optimism

a feeling that good things will happen and that something will be successful

In simple words: The feeling of being positive about the future.

Optimism in a sentence

• a mood of **cautious optimism**
• There are very real grounds for optimism.
• We may now look forward with optimism.
• optimism about/for the future
• Both sides have expressed optimism about the chances of an early agreement.
• Her optimism turned out to be misplaced.
• I find it hard to share his optimism.
• The news caused a wave of optimism.
• There was a note of optimism in his voice.

How to use Optimism

Used in both formal and informal contexts to express a hopeful attitude. It’s appropriate for personal discussions, motivational speeches, or written work. Avoid in contexts that require a pessimistic tone.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'opt' — choosing to see the positive side.

Related words

Collocations with Optimism

• considerable
• great
• tremendous
• wave
• note
• express
• share
• prevail
• reign
• evaporate
• with optimism
• optimism  about
• optimism  over
• cause for optimism
• grounds for optimism
• reason for optimism

Synonyms for Optimism

• hopefulness
• positivity
• confidence
• sanguinity
• buoyancy

Opposites of Optimism

• pessimism
• cynicism

Common mistakes with Optimism

• 'Optimism' confused with 'optimistic' (the adjective form).
• 'Optimism' used in negative contexts incorrectly.

Frequently asked questions about Optimism

What does Optimism mean?

The feeling of being positive about the future.

What is the definition of Optimism?

a feeling that good things will happen and that something will be successful

How do you use Optimism in a sentence?

a mood of **cautious optimism**

Can you give another example of Optimism?

There are very real grounds for optimism.

What are synonyms for Optimism?

Common alternatives include hopefulness, positivity, confidence, sanguinity, buoyancy.

What is the opposite of Optimism?

Opposite meanings include pessimism, cynicism.

What words go with Optimism?

It commonly pairs with considerable, great, tremendous, wave, note, express, share, prevail, reign, evaporate, with optimism, optimism  about, optimism  over, cause for optimism, grounds for optimism, reason for optimism.

What are common mistakes when using Optimism?

'Optimism' confused with 'optimistic' (the adjective form). 'Optimism' used in negative contexts incorrectly.

How do you pronounce Optimism?

US: /["/ˈɑːptɪmɪzəm/"]/, UK: /["/ˈɒptɪmɪzəm/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Optimism?

Used in both formal and informal contexts to express a hopeful attitude. It’s appropriate for personal discussions, motivational speeches, or written work. Avoid in contexts that require a pessimistic tone.

What CEFR level is Optimism?

"Optimism" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.