Definition

A belief that things will turn out better than they actually will, often leading to unrealistic expectations.

Example

His overoptimism about the project's success made the team overlook potential challenges.

Conversation

I think sometimes my overoptimism gets the best of me.

Really? What makes you say that?

Well, I often expect everything to go perfectly and then feel disappointed.

Yeah, that can happen; a bit of realism might help balance it out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overoptimism → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "optimism" (from Latin "optimum", meaning best). The word describes an excessive belief in the best possible outcome.

Memory Tip

Think of being excessively positive ('over-') about the best possible outcome ('optimum') — that's what overoptimism means.

Visually Confused Words