Hopeless

usgb/ˈhəʊpləs/
adjective

Feeling or causing feelings of despair; having no hope.

He felt hopeless when he lost his job.
Visual representation of "hopeless" - Feeling or causing feelings of despair; having no hope.

Often appears as...

  • feel hopeless
  • hopeless situation

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "hopeless"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Weight

Use 'hopeless' to express a strong, sad emotion when a situation feels uncontrollable.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
After many attempts, they were still hopeless about finding a cure.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Always Literal

'Hopeless' can be exaggerated in casual conversation, not implying true despair.

Illustration for Not Always Literal
I'm hopeless at cooking; I can't even boil water!
LampPro Tip 3/3

Context Sensitive

The word can be insulting if used to describe people; use with caution.

Illustration for Context Sensitive
Calling someone hopeless can be hurtful, even if said in jest.
Visual representation of the word "Hopeless"

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