What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hopeful
Example
She felt hopeful about her chances of getting the job. [hopeful: adjective]
Example
The team's recent success has made them feel more hopeful about their chances in the tournament. [hopeful: adjective]
promising
Example
The new product has shown promising results in early testing. [promising: adjective]
Example
The young athlete is very promising and has a bright future ahead of him. [promising: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Promising is less common than hopeful in everyday language. Hopeful is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while promising is more specific and often used in professional or academic settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between hopeful and promising?
Promising is generally considered more formal than hopeful. It is often used in professional or academic contexts to describe potential for success or development.