micawberism Definition
the tendency to be hopeful and optimistic in difficult situations, often to the point of naivety or unrealistic expectations.
Using micawberism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "micawberism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Despite losing his job, he maintained his micawberism and believed that everything would work out in the end.
Example
Her micawberism led her to take on more debt than she could handle.
Example
Micawberism is admirable, but it must be balanced with practicality and realism.
micawberism Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for micawberism
Phrases with micawberism
Micawber's principle
the belief that income should exceed expenses, often summarized as 'Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen [pounds] nineteen [shillings] and six [pence], result happiness. Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty pounds ought and six, result misery.'
Example
Micawber's principle is a simple but effective way to manage personal finances.
Micawber's law
the idea that if one spends more than they earn, they will eventually face financial ruin
Example
Micawber's law is a cautionary tale about the dangers of overspending.
Micawber's syndrome
a psychological condition characterized by a persistent belief that everything will work out in the end, despite evidence to the contrary
Example
Micawber's syndrome can lead to poor decision-making and financial difficulties.
Origins of micawberism
named after Wilkins Micawber, a character in Charles Dickens' novel 'David Copperfield', known for his optimism despite facing financial difficulties
Summary: micawberism in Brief
'Micawberism' [mɪˈkɔːbərɪzəm] refers to the tendency to be optimistic and hopeful in difficult situations, often to the point of naivety or unrealistic expectations. It is named after Wilkins Micawber, a character in Charles Dickens' novel 'David Copperfield,' who was known for his unwavering optimism despite facing financial difficulties. 'Micawberism' extends into phrases like 'Micawber's principle,' which emphasizes the importance of living within one's means, and 'Micawber's syndrome,' a psychological condition characterized by unrealistic optimism.
