hope 1 of 2

Definition of hopenext

hope

2 of 2

noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb hope contrast with its synonyms?

The words expect and look are common synonyms of hope. While all three words mean "to await some occurrence or outcome," hope implies little certainty but suggests confidence or assurance in the possibility that what one desires or longs for will happen.

hopes to find a job soon

When is expect a more appropriate choice than hope?

In some situations, the words expect and hope are roughly equivalent. However, expect implies a high degree of certainty and usually involves the idea of preparing or envisioning.

expects to be finished by Tuesday

When would look be a good substitute for hope?

While the synonyms look and hope are close in meaning, look, with to, implies assurance that expectations will be fulfilled; with for it implies less assurance and suggests an attitude of expectancy and watchfulness.

looks to a tidy profit from the sale
look for rain when the wind shifts to the northeast

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of hope
Verb
As the 2025-26 sports year concludes, fans hope stability has arrived — for real, this time — in the form of coach Kyle Whittingham. Austin Meek, New York Times, 12 May 2026 The challenges are part of a national wave reshaping the debate over generational power and the direction of the Democratic Party ahead of the 2026 midterms, when party leaders hope to retake control of the House. Justine McDaniel, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2026
Noun
But whitebark pines are a symbol of hope to Durglo. Ellis Juhlin, NPR, 18 May 2026 Stammen said the move was made, in part, with the hope Merrill will relax. Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for hope
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hope
Verb
  • Those wishing to stay anonymous can call Crime Stoppers of Minnesota at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip here.
    Nick Lentz, CBS News, 19 May 2026
  • The university said Jerry Welsh Gymnasium would serve as a memorial space for students, teammates and members of the campus community wishing to leave flowers and messages in Smith’s honor.
    Christina Coulter, PEOPLE, 19 May 2026
Noun
  • The death of two of his sons in previous years formed the background, but Cave’s themes are hopefulness and the joy that lives at the far side of grief.
    Maira Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 18 May 2026
  • The tender side of Strout is her hopefulness—and that may be toughening up.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 7 May 2026
Noun
  • Although Detroit collapsed in the second round, the front office’s confidence in Bickerstaff, who signed a contract extension the day after the Pistons ousted the Orlando Magic in the first round, hasn’t wavered.
    Hunter Patterson, New York Times, 18 May 2026
  • Ahead, pro hairstylists advise on how to transition out of a relaxer while minimizing breakage and maintaining confidence in your hair.
    Janell M. Hickman-Kirby, Allure, 18 May 2026
Noun
  • Jeffries, for his part, was far too careful to broadcast any grand plans.
    Jason Zengerle, New Yorker, 18 May 2026
  • Before getting to address eager investors, Musk had to testify to a jury in downtown Oakland in an effort to prove his case and, if successful, potentially throw a major wrench into OpenAI's ambitious plans.
    Ashley Capoot,Lora Kolodny, CNBC, 18 May 2026
Verb
  • The story centers on Zha, a janitor at a bankrupt, long-shuttered film studio who retreats into a virtual world, cultivating an online romance and dreaming of a voyage to the Moon.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 18 May 2026
  • Musk additionally dreams of sending humans aboard Starship to colonize Mars.
    Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 18 May 2026
Noun
  • Cities should shift resources away from enforcement and toward permanent supportive housing, mental health care, and outreach services that build trust and stability.
    Shianne LeClaire, Hartford Courant, 17 May 2026
  • One trust would collect money from the church, parishes, schools and insurance settlements to compensate survivors, while the second trust would manage litigation and insurance claims against insurers that did not settle.
    Bridget Byrne, Baltimore Sun, 17 May 2026
Noun
  • The solar system is estimated to be around 2 light-years wide, giving you an idea of just how far astronomers consider our cosmic backyard to extend.
    Robert Lea, Space.com, 15 May 2026
  • Not having to consider finances or James’ specific (and largely unknown) priorities, members of The Athletic’s NBA staff have some ideas.
    John Hollinger, New York Times, 15 May 2026
Verb
  • But the companies are now looking increasingly to expand the market for weight-loss drugs that have revolutionized the pharmaceutical space in recent years.
    Elsa Ohlen, CNBC, 18 May 2026
  • The 76ers looked tired, injured and shallow, relying on only six guys for most of a short series.
    Tony Jones, New York Times, 18 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Hope.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hope. Accessed 22 May. 2026.

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