What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hopeless
Example
I feel hopeless about passing this exam. [hopeless: adjective]
Example
She looked at him with a hopeless expression. [hopeless: adjective]
worthless
Example
This old computer is worthless. [worthless: adjective]
Example
He felt worthless after losing his job. [worthless: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Worthless is more commonly used than hopeless in everyday language. Worthless is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while hopeless is less common and refers to specific situations where there is a need for hope or optimism.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hopeless and worthless?
Both hopeless and worthless are typically associated with an informal tone, but they can also be used in formal contexts when appropriate.
