hopefully
Americanadverb
-
in a hopeful manner.
We worked hopefully and energetically, thinking we might finish first.
-
it is hoped; if all goes well.
Hopefully, we will get to the show on time.
adverb
-
in a hopeful manner
-
informal it is hoped
hopefully they will be here soon
Usage
Although some strongly object to its use as a sentence modifier, hopefully meaning “it is hoped (that)” has been in use since the 1930s and is fully standard in all varieties of speech and writing: Hopefully, tensions between the two nations will ease. This use of hopefully is parallel to that of certainly, curiously, frankly, regrettably, and other sentence modifiers.
The use of hopefully to mean it is hoped used to be considered incorrect by some people but has now become acceptable in informal contexts
Etymology
Origin of hopefully
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But hopefully when Ohtani’s knee barks next time, he won’t pitch through it.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 16, 2026
“But having that role hopefully will help,” he said.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 13, 2026
Then I had one of those milestone birthdays earlier this year that makes you think about life, death and, hopefully, retirement.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 3, 2026
“He knows that and hopefully we’ll get the improvements that we need in that area.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 2, 2026
“I’m going to be a Junior Agent, and I’m going to find my brother. And hopefully your sister too.”
From "Amari and the Night Brothers" by B.B. Alston
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
