# hope

/ˈhoʊp/ (US) · /hˈəʊp/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hope
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. to want and expect

verb · CEFR A2

to want something to happen and believe that it is possible.

For teachers: to desire a certain event or state of affairs with a degree of expectation that it will be fulfilled.

- I hope it doesn't rain tomorrow because we are planning a picnic.
- The diplomatic team hopes that the upcoming summit will provide a framework for a lasting ceasefire in the region.

Usage: Often followed by a clause in the present tense to refer to the future.

### 2. to intend

verb · CEFR B1

to plan or intend to do something in the future.

For teachers: to intend or plan to perform an action, typically followed by a to-infinitive.

- We are hoping to visit my parents in Italy next summer.
- The research department is hoping to secure additional funding before the current fiscal year concludes.

Usage: Takes a 'to' infinitive when the subject intends to perform the action themselves.

### 3. the feeling of optimism

noun · CEFR A2

the feeling that you want something to happen and that it might happen.

For teachers: the abstract feeling of trust or expectation that a desired outcome is possible.

- The doctors gave the family some hope that the patient would recover.
- Despite the economic downturn, there is a glimmer of hope that the new trade agreement will stimulate local industry.

### 4. a source of optimism

noun · CEFR B1

a person or thing that gives you a reason to feel optimistic.

For teachers: a person, thing, or circumstance that provides a basis for optimistic expectation.

- This new medicine is the only hope for many people with the disease.
- The young striker is the team's greatest hope for winning the championship this season.

### 5. a valley

noun · CEFR C2 · Dialect · British English

a small, closed valley or a hollow in a hill.

For teachers: a small enclosed valley or a combe, often found in place names.

- The hikers followed the path deep into the hope between the two green hills.
- The village was nestled within a narrow hope, sheltered from the harsh northern winds by the surrounding ridges.

Teaching tip: This sense is largely restricted to Northern English and Scottish dialects and is most commonly encountered in topographic surnames or place names.

## Examples

- She has a lot of hope for the future.
- The doctors gave the family some hope after the surgery went better than expected.
- Despite the overwhelming evidence of climate degradation, the activists maintained a stubborn hope that collective international action could still reverse the most catastrophic trends.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.