# optimism

/ˈɑptəˌmɪzəm/ (US) · /ˈɒptɪmˌɪzəm/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/optimism
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. positive outlook

noun · CEFR B1

a feeling that good things will happen or that a situation will be successful.

For teachers: a general tendency to expect the best possible outcome or to dwell on the most hopeful aspects of a situation.

- Despite the difficult news, she maintained her optimism about the future of the company.
- Market analysts expressed cautious optimism that the new fiscal policy would eventually stabilise the volatile currency.

### 2. philosophical doctrine

noun · CEFR C2 · Academic · Formal

the belief that the world we live in is the best one possible.

For teachers: the philosophical doctrine that this world is the best of all possible worlds, or that good will ultimately prevail over evil.

- The professor explained the history of optimism as a religious and philosophical theory.
- Voltaire's 'Candide' serves as a biting satire of the blind optimism championed by certain eighteenth-century philosophers.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun in this abstract sense.

## Examples

- Her natural optimism helps her stay happy during tough times.
- Despite the recent economic downturn, there is a growing sense of optimism among small business owners regarding next year's sales.
- The philosopher argued that rational optimism is not a blind denial of suffering, but a deliberate choice to focus on human potential for progress.

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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.