at all optimistic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at all optimistic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a lack of optimism or to question the level of optimism in a situation. Example: "Given the current circumstances, I am not at all optimistic about the outcome of the negotiations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"I'm not at all optimistic".

The Guardian

I am not at all optimistic about the chances of a deal in Mexico.

The Guardian

Dr. Vredenburg is hopeful about his experiment, but like many of his colleagues he is not at all optimistic about the future of amphibians.

The New York Times - Science

Those included Detroit Red Wings forward Dan Cleary, the former player Bobby Holik and the respected Canadian commentator Bob McKenzie, who said Tuesday, "I'm not at all optimistic that there's going to be hockey this year".

The New York Times - Sports

Airlines, credit card companies and others "systematically cut the name, giving me and my family really funny names," wrote Fernando Enriquez de Salamanca y Celada, who is not at all optimistic that this new system will work smoothly.

The New York Times

I asked the sheriff of St. Bernard Parish, Jack Stephens, if he was at all optimistic about BP stopping the gusher of oil that is fouling the Gulf of Mexico in time to prevent a long-term environmental catastrophe in the southern Louisiana wetlands.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"If you're at all technologically optimistic, the message from everyone in the clean-energy world is this transition is going to be quicker and cheaper than anybody predicts," said Jamie Henn, spokesman for the climate-action advocates at 350.org.

Vice

Originally, this period was set at an optimistic twenty years.

The New Yorker

The tomes in airport bookstores' business sections warn against "negativity" and advise the reader to be at all times upbeat, optimistic, brimming with confidence.

The New York Times

Many others here and in Hong Kong either will not talk publicly at all or are optimistic on the record and gloomy in private.

The New York Times

"I am not optimistic at all," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When expressing a lack of optimism, consider the degree of negativity you want to convey. "Not at all optimistic" indicates a strong lack of hope, so use it when you truly feel that way.

Common error

While "not at all optimistic" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or dramatic in casual conversation. In informal settings, consider using simpler alternatives like "not very hopeful" or "not expecting much."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at all optimistic" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a subject, expressing a complete absence of optimism regarding a situation or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. The examples provided by Ludwig show it modifying opinions and forecasts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at all optimistic" is a grammatically correct way to express a complete lack of optimism about a situation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not overly common, the phrase is frequently found in news and media and scientific contexts, and it maintains a neutral register. When using this phrase, be mindful of the degree of negativity you wish to convey, as it signifies a strong lack of hope. Consider simpler alternatives like "not very hopeful" in more informal settings. Also, be aware that overuse may sound too formal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Not very hopeful

Indicates a low level of hopefulness, similar to not being optimistic.

Slightly pessimistic

Suggests a mild degree of pessimism, a less intense version of not being optimistic.

Lacking in confidence

Focuses on a lack of confidence in a positive outcome.

Not expecting much

Implies low expectations, which aligns with a lack of optimism.

Somewhat doubtful

Expresses doubt about a positive result, reflecting a pessimistic outlook.

Far from certain

Emphasizes the uncertainty of a positive outcome, mirroring a lack of optimism.

Not anticipating success

Directly states that success is not expected, conveying a similar sentiment.

Unlikely to happen

Focuses on the low probability of a desired event, aligning with a lack of optimism.

Dim outlook

Paints a negative picture of the future, similar to a lack of optimism.

Questionable prospects

Indicates that the prospects are not promising, suggesting a lack of optimism.

FAQs

What does "at all optimistic" mean?

The phrase "at all optimistic" means not optimistic to any degree; completely lacking in a positive outlook or hopefulness about something.

How can I use "at all optimistic" in a sentence?

You can use it to express your lack of hope. For example: "Given the current circumstances, I am not "at all optimistic" about the outcome of the negotiations."

Are there alternatives to saying "I'm not at all optimistic"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "I'm "not very hopeful"", "I'm "slightly pessimistic"", or "I'm "lacking in confidence" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "at all optimistic"?

It is appropriate when you want to emphasize a strong lack of optimism or hope, particularly in situations where a positive outcome is uncertain or unlikely.