adv Uncommon

hopelessly

HOHP-lihs-lee

Hopelessly (adv) means In a way that shows no hope, or to a degree beyond repair. Example: “They were hopelessly lost in the forest by nightfall.”

adv

In a way that shows no hope, or to a degree beyond repair.

"They were hopelessly lost in the forest by nightfall."

"The two of them were hopelessly in love."

How to use hopelessly

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishCompletely, in a way that can't be fixed or helped — often used to intensify an adjective ("hopelessly devoted", "hopelessly confused").

Common pairings

hopelessly lost hopelessly in love hopelessly outdated

Word forms

more hopelessly comparative, most hopelessly superlative

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They were _____ lost in the forest by nightfall.

Etymology

From hopeless + -ly.

Synonyms

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dispiritedly

Rhymes for hopelessly

expressly aimlessly endlessly carelessly painlessly fearlessly recklessly helplessly tirelessly ruthlessly selflessly needlessly

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Frequently asked questions

What does “hopelessly” mean?

The word “hopelessly” means in a way that shows no hope, or to a degree beyond repair. In plain terms, completely, in a way that can't be fixed or helped — often used to intensify an adjective ("hopelessly devoted", "hopelessly confused").

How do you pronounce “hopelessly”?

“Hopelessly” is pronounced HOHP-lihs-lee (/ˈhoʊplɪsli/ in IPA).

How do you use “hopelessly” in a sentence?

Here is “hopelessly” used in a sentence: “They were hopelessly lost in the forest by nightfall.”

What part of speech is “hopelessly”?

“Hopelessly” is an adverb.

Is “hopelessly” a common word?

“Hopelessly” is an uncommon word in modern English.