hope was dashed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hope was dashed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express disappointment or the loss of hope in a situation. Example: "After hearing the news about the project's cancellation, her hope was dashed, and she felt disheartened."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

That hope was dashed within two days.

The Economist

But of course the hope was dashed.

The Guardian

Two months later that hope was dashed.

The Guardian

Many voters hoped a local candidate would win, but that hope was dashed by Colombians in Miami and Spain.

The New York Times

The hope was dashed when Dickey allowed Gerardo Parra's double down the line in left with one out in the fourth, but Dickey worked his way of trouble.

The New York Times - Sports

But its hope was dashed last week, when publicity about the preparation of the death-rate lists provoked a rash of inquiries.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

But that does not mean hope is dashed for HBO.

The New York Times

This hope is dashed when Gopnik enters the steam room to find two men having sex.

The New Yorker

As for a properly representative system, that hope is dashed for years to come.

The Guardian - Opinion

But in both cases, that hope is dashed.

Science Magazine

… Will that hope be dashed on the rocks?

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hope was dashed" when you want to convey a sense of disappointment after a specific expectation or desire was not met. This phrase is effective for illustrating a turning point from optimism to disillusionment.

Common error

Avoid using "hope was dashed" for minor setbacks. The phrase carries a significant weight of disappointment, so reserve it for situations where the unfulfilled expectation had a substantial impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hope was dashed" functions as a declarative statement, expressing a specific instance where anticipation or expectation ended in disappointment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hope was dashed" effectively communicates a sense of disappointment following the failure of an expectation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and frequently used, particularly in news and media to mark a turning point from optimism to disillusionment. While common, it's important to reserve this phrase for situations where the disappointment is significant, and to consider synonyms like "dreams were shattered" or "expectations failed to materialize" for variety. By understanding its appropriate context and potential alternatives, writers can use "hope was dashed" to create a powerful impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

all hope vanished

Emphasizes the disappearance of any positive expectation.

anticipation turned to disappointment

Emphasizes the shift from a positive expectation to a negative feeling.

expectations were deflated

Focuses on the reduction of expectation rather than a complete end to hope.

expectations failed to materialize

Highlights the lack of realization of initial expectations.

dreams were shattered

Implies a more forceful and complete destruction of aspirations.

initial enthusiasm waned

Focuses on the decrease of initial excitement or passion.

optimism faded

Suggests a gradual decline in positive feelings about a situation.

prospects diminished

Highlights the reduction in the likelihood of a positive outcome.

the possibility evaporated

Suggests that a chance or opportunity disappeared completely.

the bubble burst

Implies a sudden and dramatic end to a period of positive expectation.

FAQs

How can I use "hope was dashed" in a sentence?

You can use "hope was dashed" to describe a situation where a specific hope or expectation was abruptly unmet, leading to disappointment. For example: "The team's hope for victory was dashed by a last-minute goal from their opponent."

What's a more formal alternative to "hope was dashed"?

A more formal alternative could be "expectations failed to materialize" or "anticipation turned to disappointment". These phrases convey a similar meaning in a more sophisticated tone.

Is "hope was dashed" an overused phrase?

"Hope was dashed" is a recognizable phrase, but not necessarily overused. Its effectiveness depends on the context. Consider using alternatives like "dreams were shattered" or "optimism faded" to avoid repetition if you find yourself using it frequently.

What is the difference between "hope was dashed" and "hope was lost"?

"Hope was dashed" implies a specific event caused the loss of hope, whereas "hope was lost" suggests a more general or gradual fading of hope. With "hope was dashed", there's often a moment of realization or a triggering event.