over-optimistic
over-optimistic — adjective
1. expecting a positive outcome even when the facts or events suggest that problems
expecting a positive outcome even when the facts or events suggest that problems are more likely; believing too strongly that things will go well despite clear warnings or evidence to the contrary
Adina was over-optimistic about the project timeline and promised delivery in two weeks.
pattern: be over-optimistic about [project/plan/timeline]
The company's over-optimistic sales forecast led to wasted resources and disappointed investors.
attributive use: over-optimistic + noun
Indra admitted he had been over-optimistic about the cost of renovating the old kitchen.
Some economists warned that the growth figures were based on over-optimistic assumptions about consumer spending.
collocation: over-optimistic assumptions
Femi worried that the board's over-optimistic view of the market would hurt long-term planning.
- over-optimistic about
- over-optimistic forecast
- over-optimistic estimate
- over-optimistic prediction
- over-optimistic assumption
- unrealistic
broader term — can describe any plan or idea that ignores real limitations, not just optimism
- excessively optimistic
more formal; the full phrase rather than a single compound word
- rose-tinted
informal, British; suggests pleasant but inaccurate beliefs, especially about the past or future
- realistic
based on facts rather than wishful thinking
- pessimistic
the opposite end of the outlook spectrum
Grammar Patterns
be over-optimistic about [noun/phrase]
over-optimistic + noun
Usage Note
Commonly used in business, planning, and personal finance contexts to criticise forecasts, budgets, or expectations that are not realistic. The 'over-' prefix signals excess — the optimism goes beyond what the situation reasonably supports.
Common Mistakes
Word family
- optimisticadjectiveB2
- optimismnounB2
- optimistnounB2
- optimisticallyadverbB2