optimistische

Optimistische is the Dutch adjective meaning optimistic, used to describe a positive outlook, expectation, or attitude. It appears in phrases such as een optimistische kijk (an optimistic view), een optimistische houding (an optimistic stance), or optimistische verwachtingen (optimistic expectations). The related noun form for the broader concept is optimisme (optimism), and the related agent noun is optimist (optimist).

Etymology and related terms: optimistische derives from the same family as optimisme and optimist, ultimately tracing back to Latin optimus "best," via French and other European languages. The suffix and inflection are typical of Dutch adjectives used with definite nouns or in plural constructions.

Usage and interpretation: In everyday language, optimistische describes people, attitudes, or forecasts that presume favorable outcomes. In psychology and social sciences, optimism is defined as a dispositional tendency to expect positive results. It is studied as a trait that can influence coping, resilience, health, and well-being. Measures such as the Life Orientation Test (LOT-R) are used to assess optimism in research.

Benefits and limits: Optimism is associated with adaptive coping, stress reduction, and better subjective well-being in many studies. However, excessive or unwarranted optimism—over-optimism—can lead to underestimating risks, poor planning, or disappointment. Realistic optimism, balancing positive expectations with acknowledgment of challenges, is often highlighted as a constructive approach.

See also: optimism, optimisme, optimist, positive psychology, optimism bias.