German word

Zuversicht

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈt͡suːfɛɐ̯ˌzɪçt/

Meaning

  • feminine nounconfidence

Example

Sie geht mit der Zuversicht ins Vorstellungsgespräch.

She enters the job interview with confidence.

Illustration for Zuversicht (confidence)

More examples

Die Trainerin vermittelte der Mannschaft Zuversicht vor dem Finale.

The coach gave the team confidence before the final.

Core concept

Someone approaches a difficult future event with an inner sense that the path leads to a good result.

Common phrases

  • Zuversicht schöpfen

    gain confidence

  • jemandem Zuversicht geben

    give someone confidence

  • die Zuversicht stärken

    strengthen confidence

Similar words

Optimismus: A generally positive view that circumstances will improve.
Vertrauen: A feeling that a person or system is reliable and can be relied on.
Hoffnung: A desire for a hoped-for outcome that keeps expectations alive.

Definition in German

Die positive Erwartung, dass etwas gut ausgehen wird.

Word origin

The noun continues Middle High German zuoversiht, whose parts correspond to 'toward' and a form related to Sicht 'sight', linking forward vision with confidence.

Usage tips

  • English confidence covers several meanings, but Zuversicht especially concerns confidence in a favorable future outcome rather than confidence in a person's ability.

Other meanings

  • optimismnoun
  • assurancenoun

Opposites

  • Pessimismuspessimismnoun

Related words

Word lists with this word