Optimistic Definition, Examples, and Usage

Meaning 1：expecting the best (optimistic)

optimistic 🔊

/ˌɑːp.tɪˈmɪs.tɪk/

adj.

having a positive attitude, expecting good things to happen in the future.

Optimistic hiker smiling on trail with map and mountains

expecting the best 🔊

➕

/ɪkˈspɛktɪŋ ðə bɛst/

adj.

Characterized by a hopeful outlook and the belief that good things will happen.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'optimus' (best) + suffix '-istic'.

💡 Mnemonic

'Opt' for the 'best' (optimus) - always expect the best.

📖 Example

Even though the weather forecast predicted rain, she remained optimistic that the school picnic would still be fun. 🔊 Even though the weather forecast predicted rain, she remained optimistic that the school picnic would still be fun.

🔗 Collocations

optimistic about – feeling positive regarding a particular situation

optimistic outlook – a general attitude of hopefulness

remain optimistic – to continue to have a positive attitude

🔄 Synonyms

hopeful (adj.) – feeling or inspiring optimism about a future event

positive (adj.) – consisting in or characterized by the presence of features which are thought to be desirable

upbeat (adj.) – cheerful and optimistic

🚫 Antonyms

pessimistic (adj.) – tending to see the worst aspect of things

cynical (adj.) – believing that people are motivated by self-interest; distrustful

negative (adj.) – consisting in or characterized by the absence rather than the presence of distinguishing features; pessimistic

🌱 Derivatives

optimism (n.) – hopefulness and confidence about the future

optimist (n.) – a person who tends to be hopeful and confident about the future

optimistically (adv.) – in a way that shows hopefulness and confidence about the future

📖 Cultural Story

From Latin 'optimus' (best) via French 'optimisme', the word entered English in the 18th century for Leibniz's 'best of all possible worlds' philosophy. Now it means a general positive outlook.