English Reference

hope vs wish

Hope describes a desire for a possible or likely future, while wish describes a desire for an impossible situation or something contrary to current reality.

hope

Desiring something that could actually happen.

I hope the weather stays clear for our outdoor wedding this Saturday.

wish

Wanting a reality that doesn't exist.

I wish I could speak five languages fluently without any effort.

Watch out
  • I wish that you have a great time at the party tonight.

    I hope that you have a great time at the party tonight.

  • I hope I were taller so I could reach the top shelf.

    I wish I were taller so I could reach the top shelf.

Remember Hope is for possibilities; wish is for fantasies.

Fill the gap with one of the two options.

  1. 1.

    The doctors the new treatment will lead to a full recovery.

  2. 2.

    He he had taken that job offer in London last year.

More like this in Everyday pairs.