Which one is correct?
"hopeless in" or "hopeless for"?

Question

Which one is correct?
"hopeless in" or "hopeless for"?

Use "hopeless in" when describing a situation, condition, or context that is devoid of hope, optimism, or possibility of improvement.

Examples:

The team was hopeless in their efforts to win the game.
She found herself in a hopeless situation with no way out.
The company was hopeless in turning around its financial losses.

Alternatives:

lacking hope in
devoid of hope in
without hope in

Use "hopeless for" when expressing a feeling of despair, lack of hope, or pessimism towards a person, situation, or outcome.

Examples:

I am hopeless for a positive outcome in this situation.
She felt hopeless for her friend who was going through a difficult time.
He is hopeless for finding love after so many failed relationships.

Alternatives:

despairing of
pessimistic about
lacking hope for

Both "hopeless for" and "hopeless in" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Hopeless for" is used when referring to a feeling or emotion towards someone or something, while "hopeless in" is used when describing a situation or condition.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

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