# wishful

/ˈwɪʃfəɫ/ (US) · /wˈɪʃfəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wishful
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

describing a hope for something that is not likely to happen. You use it when someone believes something because they want it to be true, not because it is realistic.

For teachers: characterised by a desire for something that is improbable or impossible. Often used to describe thoughts or beliefs based on hope rather than evidence.

## Examples

- Thinking I will win the lottery is just wishful thinking.
- The manager's plan to double sales in one month was dismissed as wishful thinking by the experienced staff.
- Despite the harsh economic data, the investors maintained a wishful outlook, hoping for a sudden market correction that would save their failing portfolios.

## Usage notes

- Commonly appears in the fixed collocation 'wishful thinking', where it functions as a modifier for the noun.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.