hopefully
Americanadverb
-
in a hopeful manner.
We worked hopefully and energetically, thinking we might finish first.
-
it is hoped; if all goes well.
Hopefully, we will get to the show on time.
adverb
-
in a hopeful manner
-
informal it is hoped
hopefully they will be here soon
Usage
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.
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
Etymology
Origin of hopefully
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"This has been a model validation, and hopefully it's just the first of many more observations to come," he said.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 21, 2026
So by coming to them with a plan of action, you are hopefully addressing some of their anxiety, and also communicating that you want to make their life easier.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 21, 2026
"We've been waiting a really long time for the MAX 10, and hopefully that wait is coming to an end," United Executive Vice President Andrew Nocella said on an earnings conference call.
From Barron's ● Jul. 16, 2026
“All of those things are building awareness, credibility, trust that then give you the political capital when you have an idea, or when you’re fighting for something, to hopefully get it done,” Gerstner said.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 12, 2026
As I strap on my seat belt, I ask hopefully, “Can we go to Graeter’s? This is an important day. It deserves the best ice cream!”
From "Blended" by Sharon M. Draper
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
