Optimistic
Optimistic (adjective) means having a hopeful and positive attitude about the future or about how a situation will turn out.
Core Meaning
Someone who is optimistic expects good things to happen and believes that things will work out well, even in difficult circumstances.
Examples
- "She remained optimistic about finding a job despite many rejections."
- "He has an optimistic outlook on life - he always sees the bright side."
- "The doctors are optimistic about her recovery."
Related Words
| Word | Type | Meaning |
|---|
| Optimism | Noun | The quality of being hopeful |
| Optimist | Noun | A person who is optimistic |
| Optimistically | Adverb | In a hopeful manner |
| Pessimistic | Antonym | Expecting the worst |
Origin
From Latin optimus meaning "best" - so optimistic literally carries the idea of expecting the best outcome.
Synonyms
Hopeful, positive, upbeat, confident, cheerful, sanguine
Antonyms
Pessimistic, negative, cynical, doubtful, gloomy
In short: an optimistic person is a "glass half full" type - they focus on possibilities and positive outcomes rather than problems and failures.