hope
Expectation and desire for something positive to happen.
Word facts
Definition
Hope is a feeling of expectation and desire for a particular positive outcome. As a verb, to hope means to want something to happen and believe it might.
Usage: Hope implies belief that something good is possible. Wish is weaker — you want it but may not believe it likely. Aspire focuses on a goal you actively work toward.
Example sentences
- 1
She held onto the hope that the lost letter would eventually arrive.
- 2
I hope you feel better soon.
- 3
Without hope, it is difficult to stay motivated through difficult times.
Word family
From Old English hopian ('to hope, trust, wish'). Related to Dutch hopen and German hoffen. An old Germanic root tied to desire and trust.
Hope contains the word 'ope' — to open. Hope opens a door toward a better possibility.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
What is the difference between hope and wish?
Hope carries some expectation that the outcome is possible. A wish is often for something you desire but may not believe likely.
Is hopefully correct to use at the start of a sentence?
In modern English, yes. 'Hopefully, it will stop raining' is widely accepted, meaning 'I hope it will stop raining'.