Is optimistic a formal word?

It is neutral and common in both speaking and writing.

What is the difference between optimistic and hopeful?

Optimistic means you expect a good result. Hopeful means you want a good result.

Can I say optimistic about something?

Yes. For example: "I'm optimistic about the results."

← Dictionary

optimistic

/ˌɒp.tɪˈmɪs.tɪk/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Believing that good things will happen, or expecting the best result. An optimistic person looks at problems in a hopeful way.

She stayed optimistic during the job search.
I'm optimistic about the meeting tomorrow.
We need an optimistic plan for recovery.

Adinary Nuance

Optimistic is about expecting good results, while hopeful is softer and more emotional. Positive is broader and can describe mood, behaviour, or general attitude. Pessimistic is the direct opposite of optimistic.

In other languages

Vietnamese: lạc quan
Spanish: optimista
Chinese: 乐观的
Japanese: 楽観的な
Korean: 낙관적인

Etymology

Optimistic came into English in the 18th century from French optimiste, based on Latin optimus, meaning "best." It first described a view that the world tends toward the best outcome.

Common phrases

optimistic outlookoptimistic aboutoptimistic outlook on liferemain optimistic

Synonyms

hopeful positive confident

Related words

pessimistic hope confidence cheerful

Frequently asked questions

Is optimistic a formal word?: It is neutral and common in both speaking and writing.
What is the difference between optimistic and hopeful?: Optimistic means you expect a good result. Hopeful means you want a good result.
Can I say optimistic about something?: Yes. For example: "I'm optimistic about the results."
What is the opposite of optimistic?: The opposite is pessimistic.