retains hope

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "retains hope" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's ability to maintain a sense of optimism or expectation for a positive outcome despite challenges or difficulties. Example: "Even in the face of adversity, she retains hope for a better future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

The relatively low-key delegation is a signal that the White House retains hope for the peace proposal this year, although there are no outward signs of progress.

The Washington Post

The 25-year-old was born in Manchester but qualifies to play for Poland through his grandfather and, while Tarkowski retains hope of playing for England, he has indicated that he would consider an offer from Poland.

The Times

The US retains hope for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, according to State Department spokesperson Jen Psaki, who says secretary of state John Kerry would use "every tool in our toolbox to return to the ceasefire".

The Guardian

As Labour enters the autumn conference season searching for a big idea, as well as a leader to unite around, Wilkinson retains hope that his idea could still shape the Labour leadership campaign.

The Guardian - Books

Sullivan retains hope Carroll will prove his worth for the club, though, saying: "If you ask me the same question at the end of the season, I hope I will be able give you a different answer and say 'Yes, it was the right decision to sign Andy Carroll'.

The Guardian - Sport

I don't know if it's evidence that Black Mirror's auteur has mellowed or that the times demand a diagnosis that retains hope, but this is a striking change from previous series, whose most memorable and satisfying moments have always been shot through with nihilism.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

BP also retains hopes of clinching a separate agreement to develop non-associated or "deep gas" at the ACG fields.

The Guardian

But it appears that the home secretary, Theresa May, still retains hopes of resurrecting the much wider bill to track everybody's email, text and internet use.

The Guardian

Two successive defeats have slightly dented the early-season optimism at Palace, although the ambitious Pardew still retains hopes of qualifying for Europe rather than looking down at a potential relegation battle.

The Guardian - Sport

Henson retains hopes of making Wales' 2011 World Cup squad.

BBC

That could pit him against future team-mate Gavin Henson, who is in the Wales squad and retains hopes of remaining at Toulon next season.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "retains hope" when you want to emphasize that someone continues to be optimistic even when facing challenges or setbacks.

Common error

Avoid using "retains hope" in situations where the optimism is unrealistic or unfounded. It's more effective when highlighting resilience amidst adversity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "retains hope" functions as a verb phrase expressing the continuation of optimism. As shown by Ludwig, it describes the subject's ability to maintain a positive outlook despite adverse conditions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Sport

12%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "retains hope" is a grammatically sound verb phrase used to express the continuation of optimism, even in challenging situations. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability. While not extremely common, the phrase is frequently found in news and sports contexts, signifying resilience and persistence. When writing, use it to emphasize the enduring belief in a positive outcome amidst adversity. Remember to avoid overusing it in contexts where optimism seems unrealistic. Related phrases like "maintains hope" or "holds onto hope" can provide alternative expressions with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintains hope

Focuses on the continuation of hope, similar to "retains hope".

holds onto hope

Emphasizes clinging to hope, implying a strong desire to remain optimistic.

keeps hope alive

Highlights the effort to prevent hope from fading.

nurtures hope

Suggests actively fostering and encouraging hope.

clings to hope

Implies a desperate attempt to maintain hope in difficult circumstances.

preserves hope

Stresses the act of safeguarding hope from being lost.

cherishes hope

Emphasizes the value and importance placed on hope.

harbors hope

Suggests secretly holding onto hope, even when it may seem unlikely.

entertains hope

Implies considering the possibility of hope, even if not fully committed to it.

cultivates hope

Indicates a deliberate and sustained effort to grow and develop hope.

FAQs

What does "retains hope" mean?

The phrase "retains hope" means to continue to have hope or optimism, even when circumstances are difficult or discouraging. It suggests a persistent belief that a positive outcome is still possible.

How can I use "retains hope" in a sentence?

You can use "retains hope" to describe someone's enduring optimism. For example, "Despite the challenges, she retains hope for a better future."

What are some alternatives to "retains hope"?

You can use alternatives like "maintains hope", "holds onto hope", or "keeps hope alive" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "retains hope" formal or informal?

"Retains hope" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It's a relatively neutral phrase that can be used in news articles, academic papers, or everyday conversations.