try to be optimistic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "try to be optimistic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when encouraging someone to maintain a positive outlook in a challenging situation. Example: "Even though things seem tough right now, I encourage you to try to be optimistic about the future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

I try to be optimistic, because you have to be, especially when you have children.

The Guardian - Books

As for her own prospects, she said, "I try to be optimistic, but I'm worried about the future".

The New York Times

I try to be optimistic that if you present some of these conundrums, then policy-makers will take notice.

The Guardian

"We try to be optimistic, but it looks like he could be out for a while," Los Angeles Coach Phil Jackson said Saturday after practice.

The New York Times - Sports

I feel so pessimistic about the world on a political level that I try to be optimistic on a personal level.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"You try to be optimistic about Kenya's future, although sometimes when you see the antics of our politicians you have to worry," says Mbuvi.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

He said he tried to be optimistic.

The New York Times

The airlines are trying to be optimistic.

The New York Times - Travel

"I'm trying to be optimistic just like Alonzo is.

The New York Times - Sports

Larry Erickson, director of operations at St . Pius X tried to be optimistic.

The New York Times

Still, Mr. Ramunni is trying to be optimistic.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When facing challenges, use "try to be optimistic" to encourage yourself or others to maintain hope and a positive outlook, focusing on potential positive outcomes rather than dwelling on negative aspects.

Common error

Avoid using "try to be optimistic" as a dismissive response to serious concerns. Ensure your encouragement is balanced with empathy and a realistic acknowledgment of the situation to avoid appearing insensitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "try to be optimistic" functions as an imperative expression, often used to encourage oneself or others to adopt a more positive perspective. As Ludwig AI explains, it promotes a hopeful outlook even when facing difficulties. It encourages action toward a specific mindset.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

31%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "try to be optimistic" is a grammatically sound and common expression used to encourage a positive outlook, particularly during challenging times. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, especially in News & Media and Wiki content. While the phrase is versatile, remember to use it with sensitivity and balance it with realistic expectations to avoid dismissiveness. Consider alternatives such as "attempt to stay positive" to tailor the message to the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attempt to be hopeful

Emphasizes the attempt or effort made towards feeling hopeful.

strive for a positive attitude

Highlights the active effort in cultivating a positive attitude.

make an effort to stay positive

Focuses on the conscious decision to maintain a positive outlook.

endeavor to remain upbeat

Uses more formal language to convey the effort to stay cheerful.

seek to maintain a hopeful outlook

Implies a deliberate search for reasons to be hopeful.

aspire to see the bright side

Focuses on the aspiration to find positive aspects in situations.

aim for a glass-half-full perspective

Uses an idiom to suggest adopting a more optimistic viewpoint.

work towards a positive mindset

Highlights the ongoing effort to develop a positive mental state.

cultivate a hopeful disposition

Suggests nurturing a naturally optimistic and hopeful nature.

choose to look on the bright side

Emphasizes the active choice to focus on positive aspects.

FAQs

How can I use "try to be optimistic" in a sentence?

You can use "try to be optimistic" to encourage someone to maintain a positive outlook in a challenging situation. For example, "Even though things seem tough right now, I encourage you to "try to be optimistic" about the future."

What can I say instead of "try to be optimistic"?

You can use alternatives like "attempt to stay positive" or "make an effort to be hopeful depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to tell someone to "try to be optimistic"?

While well-intentioned, telling someone to ""try to be optimistic"" might not always be suitable. Consider the context and the person's emotional state. Sometimes, acknowledging their feelings and offering support is more helpful.

What's the difference between ""try to be optimistic"" and "be realistic"?

"Try to be optimistic" focuses on maintaining a positive outlook, even in difficult situations. "Be realistic" emphasizes assessing a situation accurately, even if the outcome might not be favorable. Balancing both is often the most effective approach.