hope

To want something to happen and think that it might happen.

• I hope you feel better soon.
• She hoped the rain would stop.
• Do you hope they will come?

How to use it: hope (that) + clause (I hope you enjoy the party.)

Similar words: wish

Opposites: despair

Common phrases: hope so, hope that something

To plan or want to do something, believing it may be possible.

• I hope to see you soon.
• She hopes to become a doctor.
• They had hoped to finish before dark.

How to use it: hope to do something (We hope to move next month.)

Similar words: aim, aspire

Common phrases: hope to win, hope to return

To want to receive something or get a good result, believing it may happen.

• We hope for good weather.
• She hoped for a quick reply.
• Are you hoping for a promotion?

How to use it: hope for something (The team is hoping for a better result.)

Opposites: despair

Common phrases: hope for something, hope for success

The feeling that something you want may happen.

• Never lose hope.
• The good news gave us hope.
• Is there any hope of finding the missing dog?

How to use it: hope of something (There is still hope of a full recovery.); hope that + clause (We have hope that conditions will improve.)

Similar words: optimism, confidence

Opposites: despair, hopelessness

Common phrases: lose hope, give hope

Something you want to happen and believe might happen.

• Her greatest hope is to travel.
• Many of his hopes came true.
• Their hopes for a peaceful future were dashed.

How to use it: a hope of doing something (She had a hope of becoming a writer.); a hope that + clause (His greatest hope was that his son would recover.)

Similar words: wish, dream, aspiration

Common phrases: hope for something, cherished hope

A person or thing that gives you a chance of getting what you want.

• You are our only hope.
• The rescue boat was their last hope.
• This young runner is the team’s best hope for a medal.

How to use it: someone’s hope for something (The new treatment is her best hope for recovery.)

Common phrases: only hope, last hope