Verhoopte

Verhoopte is a Dutch adjective meaning “hoped-for” or “longed-for.” It is used to describe something that people hope will happen or be realized, rather than something that is certain or guaranteed. The term often appears in formal or written Dutch, where it can emphasize the role of hope in the outcome.

Etymology and nuance: Verhoopte derives from the noun hoop (hope) with the prefix ver-, forming an adjective that characterizes a noun as the object of a hope or anticipation. In use, verhoopte highlights an aspirational or anticipated quality, as opposed to words like verwacht (expected) or zeker (certain). While related, verhoopte tends to carry a stronger sense of hopeful desirability.

Usage: The word commonly appears before a noun in attributive position, for example: “de verhoopte oplossing” (the hoped-for solution), or predicatively in phrases like “de verhoopte vooruitgang” (the hoped-for progress). It can convey optimism about a future development, often in discussion of plans, negotiations, or research outcomes. In some contexts, verhoopte can imply that the outcome remains uncertain despite the hope.

Synonyms and contrasts: Related terms include hoopt, hopen (to hope), hoopvol (hopeful), en verwachte (expected). Verhoopte differs from verwacht by foregrounding the element of hope rather than the mere probability of occurrence; from hoopvol by describing the specific thing that is hoped for, rather than the general mood.

See also: Hoop (hope), Verwachten (to expect), Hoopvol (hopeful), Oplossing (solution). Verhoopte is primarily a literary and formal descriptor rather than a term used in everyday, colloquial speech.