Definitions

hopeless

[hohp-lis] / ˈhoʊp lɪs /

ADJECTIVE

futile, pessimistic

Synonyms

STRONGEST

desperate forlorn helpless impossible pointless sad tragic useless

WEAK

bad beyond recall cynical dejected demoralized despairing despondent disconsolate discouraging downhearted fatal gone goner ill-fated impracticable in despair incurable irredeemable irreparable irreversible irrevocable lost menacing no-win past hope shot down sinister sunk threatening unachievable unavailing unfortunate unmitigable up the creek vain woebegone worsening

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cheerful good happy hopeful joyful

WEAK

auspicious bright encouraging expectant optimistic promising propitious rosy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Linda Goodman’s hopeless search is just one example of such an effect.

From Slate • May 5, 2026

During that stretch, Davis has waffled between hopeless and hopeful on a weekly basis.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

This is not necessarily a hopeless situation, but it requires immediate action and sound legal guidance.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

"We felt hopeless," says Holm-Aderemi, describing how they took turns carrying out searches of the streets themselves.

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2026

Euwe, in grandmasterly fashion, thoroughly outplayed Bobby until they reached the twentieth move, at which point Bobby, realizing that his position was hopeless, toppled his king in resignation.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady

hopeless

Example Sentences

Related Words