# hopelessly

/ˈhoʊpɫəsɫi/ (US) · /hˈəʊpləsli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hopelessly
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

used to emphasize that a situation is very bad and cannot be fixed. You use it when there is no chance of success or improvement.

For teachers: indicates a state of total despair or an inability to be rectified. Functions as an intensifier for negative adjectives or situations, suggesting a complete lack of hope or solution.

## Examples

- The two countries are hopelessly divided on the issue.
- By the time the rescue team arrived, the small boat was hopelessly lost in the thick fog.
- Despite their best efforts to modernize the factory, the outdated machinery remained hopelessly inefficient compared to the competitors' new technology.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the adjective it modifies or after the verb 'to be'.

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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.