Sanguine
hardPositive toneSANG-gwin
adjective
Definition
Optimistic or positive, especially in an apparently bad or difficult situation
Memory hook
SANG-wine: someone who's had some wine is rosy-cheeked and cheerfully optimistic.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Despite the challenges, she remained sanguine about the project's success.”
“His sanguine outlook helped the team stay motivated during difficult times.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Despite the challenges, she remained ______ about the project's success.”
Show answer
sanguine
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Sanguine is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "optimistic" or "buoyant" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "pessimistic".
Related GRE Words
optimistic
Hopeful and confident about the future
ebullient
overflowing with enthusiasm and high spirits
saturnine
gloomy, sullen, or grimly serious in temperament
timorous
fearful, timid, or lacking in confidence
stoic
showing endurance of hardship without complaint or visible emotion
consternation
A feeling of anxiety or dismay, typically at something unexpected
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