wishful thinking

noun

1. interpretation of facts, actions, words, etc., as one would like them to be rather than as they really are; imagining as actual what is not.

wishful thinking

noun

1. the erroneous belief that one's wishes are in accordance with reality

Other Word Forms

• wishful thinker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of wishful thinking¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Idioms and Phrases

Interpreting matters as one would like them to be, as opposed to what they really are. For example, Matthew wanted to be a basketball player, but with his height that was wishful thinking. This term comes from Freudian psychology of the mid-1920s and soon began to be used more loosely.

Example Sentences

She says the idea that collagen can make its journey through our body - not the easiest of quests - and land exactly where we need it to be is probably wishful thinking.

From BBC

Every origin story marinates in wishful thinking that haunts us to the end of our days.

From Salon

"That's extremely wishful thinking, but I just find it so interesting to be part of. I love reading about it and everything about it."

From BBC

It's more an exercise in wishful thinking than anything else.

From BBC

“That’s wishful thinking after a consequential war that has damaged Iran’s defense doctrine and one where Israel hasn’t seen its strategic objectives met,” Vakil said.

From Los Angeles Times