Use of Idioms:
Like all idioms, the meaning isn’t clear upon reading. Idioms are somewhat cryptic. Their meanings come about due to use rather than diction (dictionary meaning). Some idioms are very old and have evolved over time. This idiom began as “hope springs eternal in the breast of man.”
Meaning of the Idiom: “Hope Springs Eternal”
It expresses the belief that it’s human nature to keep on hoping against all odds. Even when there’s no reason to be hopeful, people continually find something to be optimistic about.
You may hear a native English speaker say:
- “I never win the lottery, but hope springs eternal.”
By saying this, the speaker is telling the listener that although they never purchase a winning lotto ticket, they believe that someday they will.
However, the idiom has been used sarcastically as well. There are many instances when the idiom is used to express a feeling of hopelessness. For example, you may hear someone say:
- “I’ve waited years for my wife to return to me, but hope springs eternal.”
In this scenario, the speaker knows that his wife will never return. He is being sarcastic about hoping for her return.
Examples of the idiom “hope springs eternal”
- Jordan thinks that at the dawn of every morning, hope springs eternal.
- People keep buying lottery tickets – hope springs eternal.
- Hope springs eternal, I think that my friends will be free of sickness soon.
Let’s practice
Q1: Try making your own sentence.
Q2: Do you believe that everyone should have the “hope springs eternal” attitude? Why or why not?
Q3: Do you know anyone who believes that hope springs eternal? Share a story about it.
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