Hopefully: meaning, definitions and examples

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hopefully

[ˈhəʊpfʊli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a hopeful manner

used to express a wish or desire

Synonyms

confidently, expectantly, optimistically.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hopefully	Used when you want to express a wish or desire for a positive outcome, but with some uncertainty. Hopefully, the weather will be nice for our picnic. She looked at the test results hopefully, praying for good news.
optimistically	Used when you want to express a positive outlook or hopefulness about the future, often focusing on the best possible outcome. Even facing many challenges, he spoke about the future optimistically. She looked at the job market optimistically, believing she would find the perfect job.
confidently	Used when you want to express certainty and self-assurance about an outcome or action. He answered the question confidently, knowing his preparation was thorough. She stepped onto the stage confidently, ready to deliver her speech.
expectantly	Used when you want to describe a feeling of anticipation for something that is likely to happen. Often carries a sense of eagerness. The children waited expectantly for their turn to meet Santa Claus. She looked at him expectantly, waiting for his response.

Examples of usage

Hopefully, everything will be fine in the end.
I am hopefully waiting for their response.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

as it is hoped

used to indicate that what is stated is hoped to be true or will happen

Synonyms

God willing, if all goes well, with any luck.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hopefully	Use when expressing a wish or desire for something positive to happen in the future. It often conveys optimism but with some uncertainty. Hopefully, the weather will be good for our picnic tomorrow Hopefully, I will get the job I applied for
with any luck	When expressing a slightly more casual or informal hope that something will happen. It shows a mixture of optimism and chance. With any luck, I'll pass my driving test this time With any luck, the train will be on time
God willing	For situations where one wants to express hope for something and acknowledges that it is ultimately up to a higher power or fate. Often used in religious or formal contexts. We'll see each other soon, God willing God willing, everything will work out fine
if all goes well	Used when you're planning or expecting something to happen, and there is a belief that everything will proceed without problems. It highlights a level of planning and optimism. If all goes well, we should finish the project by next week If all goes well, the surgery will be a success

Examples of usage

Hopefully, we will have good weather for the picnic.
Hopefully, the issue will be resolved soon.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

'Hopefully' originated in the early 19th century, combining 'hope' with the suffix '-fully', meaning 'in a hopeful manner.'
The word has transitioned from an adverb describing how someone acts with hope to a phrase indicating expectation about the future.
In older texts, 'hopefully' was often used to mean 'full of hope', but it now commonly conveys a desire for something to happen.

Usage in Language

In modern language, 'hopefully' can often create confusion, as some people use it to imply certainty rather than hope.
Some grammarians criticize informal uses of 'hopefully', preferring it be restricted to expressing genuine hope or desire.
'Hopefully' has become a common part of everyday speech, often used in casual conversation and written communication.

Cultural References

The word 'hopefully' has been featured in popular media, including songs where it expresses yearning or optimistic feelings.
It’s often found in motivational speeches and literature, emphasizing optimism in facing challenges.
Many self-help books promote the mindset of leading with hope, often using 'hopefully' in their encouraging messages.

Psychology

Studies show that having a hopeful outlook can improve one's mental well-being and coping abilities in difficult situations.
Hope is a critical aspect of goal-setting and motivation, where thinking 'hopefully' can lead to better outcomes.
Feeling hopeful is linked to higher resilience, allowing individuals to bounce back from setbacks.

Literature

Many authors use 'hopefully' in their narratives to convey characters' desires and expectations about future events.
In poetry, the word often evokes powerful imagery and emotions, as poets express themes of hope and aspiration.
Classic literature frequently features characters whose journeys are defined by hopefulness, reflecting the human condition's broader struggles.

Translations

Translations of the word "hopefully" in other languages:

🇵🇹 esperançosamente

🇮🇳 आशा है कि

🇩🇪 hoffentlich

🇮🇩 semoga

🇺🇦 сподіваюся

🇵🇱 miejmy nadzieję

🇯🇵 願わくば (ねがわくば)

🇫🇷 avec espoir

🇪🇸 con suerte

🇹🇷 umarım

🇰🇷 희망적으로 (huimangjeogeuro)

🇸🇦 نأمل

🇨🇿 snad

🇸🇰 dúfajme

🇨🇳 希望地 (xīwàng de)

🇸🇮 upajmo

🇮🇸 vonandi

🇰🇿 үміттенемін

🇬🇪 იმედია (imedi'a)

🇦🇿 ümid edirəm

🇲🇽 con suerte

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,959 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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9956 adrenal
9957 beet
9958 attenuation
9959 hopefully
9960 genetics
9961 brittle
9962 ministerial
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