optimism

[ˈɑːptɪmɪzəm]

optimism Definition

hopefulness and confidence about the future or the successful outcome of something.

Using optimism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "optimism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    His optimism about the future of the company was contagious.

  • Example

    Despite the challenges, she maintained her optimism and continued to work hard.

  • Example

    The team's optimism helped them to overcome the obstacles and achieve their goals.

optimism Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using optimism

  • the idea that having a positive attitude can lead to greater success and happiness

    Example

    She firmly believed in the power of positive thinking and always tried to maintain an optimistic outlook.

  • to focus on the positive aspects of a situation rather than the negative ones

    Example

    Even though things didn't go as planned, she tried to look on the bright side and find something positive in the experience.

  • a positive aspect of a difficult or challenging situation

    Example

    Although losing his job was tough, the silver lining was that it gave him the opportunity to pursue a new career path.

Phrases with optimism

  • a feeling of hopefulness tempered by a realistic understanding of the risks involved

    Example

    The company's financial situation has improved, but there is still a need for cautious optimism.

  • an excessive or unwarranted belief in the success of something without considering the potential risks or challenges

    Example

    His blind optimism led him to invest all his savings in a risky venture that ultimately failed.

  • a psychological concept that refers to the ability to cultivate a positive outlook through cognitive and behavioral strategies

    Example

    Through therapy, he was able to develop learned optimism and overcome his negative thought patterns.

Origins of optimism

from Latin 'optimum', meaning 'best'

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Summary: optimism in Brief

Optimism [ˈɑːptɪmɪzəm] is the feeling of hopefulness and confidence about the future or the successful outcome of something. It is characterized by positivity, buoyancy, and cheerfulness, and can be tempered by a realistic understanding of risks, as in 'cautious optimism.' The concept of 'learned optimism' refers to the ability to cultivate a positive outlook through cognitive and behavioral strategies. Idioms like 'the power of positive thinking,' 'look on the bright side,' and 'silver lining' reflect the idea that focusing on the positive aspects of a situation can lead to greater success and happiness.

How do native speakers use this expression?