Usage Note
Espoir is the noun for hope as a feeling or aspiration. It is distinct from espérance, which tends to appear in more theological or philosophical contexts (e.g., l'espérance de vie — life expectancy). The verb espérer means to hope. Avoir espoir and garder l'espoir (to keep hope) are common expressions.
Examples
"Il garde l'espoir de la revoir."
Natural Translation
He keeps the hope of seeing her again.
Literal Translation
He keeps the-hope of her to-see again
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