Wishful: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'wishful' is derived from Middle English, originating from the word 'wischen', which means to wish.
• It combines 'wish' with the suffix '-ful', indicating abundance, meaning full of wishes.
• The term has been used in English literature since at least the 19th century to describe dreams and hopes.

Psychology

• Wishful thinking can sometimes help individuals cope with difficult situations by fostering optimism.
• However, excessive wishful thinking may lead to disappointment when reality doesn't align with expectations.
• Research shows that people often engage in wishful thinking during uncertain events, such as hoping for a favorite sports team to win.

Literature

• In literature, wishful thinking often appears as a theme where characters dream of better lives, reflecting human desires and aspirations.
• Classic novels like 'The Great Gatsby' explore wishful themes, where characters yearn for unattainable goals.
• Fairy tales are rich in wishful themes, often depicting magical wishes granting characters their heart's desire.

Pop Culture

• Songs like 'Wishful Thinking' express themes of longing and hope, resonating with listeners' desires.
• Wishful thinking is a common trope in movies, where characters hope for impossible scenarios to resolve conflicts.
• The phrase 'wishful thinking' appears frequently in everyday language, often to describe unrealistic hopes or dreams.

Philosophy

• Philosophers have debated the implications of wishful thinking, considering its impact on decision-making and reality perception.
• Some argue that while hope can motivate action, blind wishful thinking may lead to irrational choices.
• Existential thinkers often suggest that wishful desires can distract from the necessity of accepting reality as it is.

Positioned at #20,438, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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