Cool MateHopefully
UK /["/ˈhəʊpfəli/"]/US /["/ˈhəʊpfəli/"]/
Definition
used to express what you hope will happen
In simple words: I hope that something will happen.
Examples
- Hopefully, we'll arrive before dark.
- ‘Are you free tonight?’ she asked hopefully.
Usage notes
Use 'hopefully' to express a positive expectation. It's common in both spoken and written English. Avoid using it in very formal writing, as it can seem too casual.
Grammar pattern
hopefully + subject + verb
Memory hint
Think of 'hope' at the beginning — you express your hope for something to happen.
Collocations
- hopefully soon
- hopefully tomorrow
- hopefully next week
Synonyms
- I hope
- it is to be hoped
- with any luck
Antonyms
- unfortunately
- regrettably
- sadly
Common mistakes
- 'Hopefully' is often confused with 'hopeful' — remember they are different parts of speech.
- Some learners use 'hopefully' to mean 'with hope' or 'in a hopeful manner,' which can be incorrect.
- Using 'hopefully' at the start of a sentence can confuse the meaning.