lespoir

L'espoir is the French noun for hope, the feeling that a desired outcome is possible. In standard French, the term is written l'espoir (with an apostrophe before a vowel). The single-word form lespoir may appear only in stylized uses or certain titles, but the conventional spelling is l'espoir. Etymology traces to Latin spes, via Old French esperer, meaning to hope.

In philosophy and religion, hope has been treated as a virtue and motivational force. In Catholic theology, Hope is one of the three theological virtues: faith, hope, and charity. It is associated with trust in a higher order or future fulfillment and with perseverance through difficulties. In secular ethics, hope is discussed as a cognitive-emotional state that guides goal setting and resilience, distinct from simple wishful thinking.

In psychology, Hope Theory (Charles R. Snyder and colleagues) defines hope as a positive motivational state based on two components: agency (willpower) and pathways (planning to meet goals). It is linked to coping, goal attainment, and well-being, and it is often distinguished from mere optimism.

Usage in culture reflects the term’s broad appeal. L'espoir is a common motif in French-language literature and cinema, frequently invoked to express perseverance, social aspiration, or existential longing. The term also appears in political and social discourse as a shorthand for progress or renewal.

See also: Hope; Esperanza; Spes.