Meaning and Usage
The word 奢望 (shēwàng) refers to an extravagant or unrealistic hope or expectation. It often implies that the desire is beyond what is reasonable or likely to be fulfilled.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used when someone hopes for something that is considered too ambitious or unlikely, such as sudden wealth, luxury items, or major life changes without sufficient basis.
Collocations and Patterns
- 奢望机会 (extravagant hope for an opportunity): used when someone hopes for a chance that is unlikely.
- 不要奢望 (don’t have unrealistic expectations): a common phrase advising against hoping for too much.
- 奢望太多 (to hope for too much): indicates excessive or unreasonable desires.
Nuances
Using 奢望 often carries a slightly negative or cautionary tone, suggesting the speaker thinks the hope is impractical. It is more formal and literary than casual synonyms like 希望 (xīwàng).
Common Confusion
Don’t confuse 奢望 with 希望. 希望 is a neutral or positive word for hope, while 奢望 implies the hope is excessive or unrealistic.