What does "hopefully" mean?

1. (it is hoped that) you use this to say that you want something to happen or that you expect a good result. 2. (in a hopeful way) doing something in a way that shows you are full of hope or optimism.

How do you use "hopefully"?

Usually placed at the beginning of a sentence to modify the entire clause. Typically follows the verb it modifies.

hopefully

adv.

US //ˈhoʊpfəɫi// UK //hˈəʊpfəli// hope·ful·ly

1 it is hoped that (adv.)
B1 Intermediate

you use this to say that you want something to happen or that you expect a good result.

used as a disjunct or sentence adverb to indicate that the speaker or writer hopes the following statement is true.

Example

Hopefully, the weather will be sunny for our picnic this weekend.

Example

Hopefully, the new policy will address the systemic issues that have plagued the department for the last decade.

Usage

Usually placed at the beginning of a sentence to modify the entire clause.
- ideally
- with luck
- regrettably
- unfortunately
2 in a hopeful way (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

doing something in a way that shows you are full of hope or optimism.

in a manner expressing hope, optimism, or expectation. This is the traditional manner-adverb use of the word.

Example

The small puppy looked up hopefully at the man holding a treat.

Example

The young entrepreneurs looked hopefully toward the panel of investors, waiting for a sign that their pitch had been successful.

Usage

Typically follows the verb it modifies.
- optimistically
- expectantly
- hopelessly
- despairingly

Origin

From hopeful + -ly. The use as a sentence adverb first gained currency in the United States and has been explained as a possible calque of German hoffentlich.