hopefully

[hohp-fuh-lee]

adverb

1. in a hopeful manner.

   We worked hopefully and energetically, thinking we might finish first.

2. it is hoped; if all goes well.

   Hopefully, we will get to the show on time.

hopefully

/ ˈhəʊpfʊlɪ /

adverb

1. in a hopeful manner

2. informal,  it is hoped

   hopefully they will be here soon

Usage

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

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hopefully¹

First recorded in 1630–40; hopeful + -ly

Related Words

• confidently www.thesaurus.com
• surely