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Do you ever feel confused about the words ‘wish’ and ‘hope’? Many learners of English find these two words difficult. But don’t worry! This article will explain the difference between them.
The Meaning of ‘Wish’
The word ‘wish’ means to want something to happen. When you wish for something, you desire it or want it very much. However, the thing you wish for is often unlikely to happen.
For example:
- I wish I could fly like a bird.
- She wishes she had more money.
- He wishes he could go to the party.
In these examples, the things that are wished for (flying like a bird, having more money, going to the party) are very difficult or almost impossible to happen.
The Meaning of ‘Hope’
The word ‘hope’ also means to want something to happen. But when you hope for something, there is a chance or possibility that it could happen.
For example:
- I hope it doesn’t rain tomorrow.
- She hopes to get a good job after she graduates.
- He hopes to visit his family next year.
In these examples, the things that are hoped for (not raining, getting a good job, visiting family) are possible and could actually happen.
The Difference Between ‘Wish’ and ‘Hope’
So, the main difference between ‘wish’ and ‘hope’ is:
- When you wish for something, it is very unlikely or almost impossible to happen.
- When you hope for something, there is a chance or possibility that it could happen.
Here are some more examples to show the difference:
- I wish I could travel back in time. (This is impossible, so we use ‘wish’.)
- I hope I can travel to another country next year. (This is possible, so we use ‘hope’.)
- She wishes she could speak fluently in five languages. (This is very difficult, so we use ‘wish’.)
- She hopes to learn a new language soon. (This is possible, so we use ‘hope’.)
- He wishes he could win the lottery. (Winning the lottery is very unlikely, so we use ‘wish’.)
- He hopes to get a good night’s sleep tonight. (This is possible, so we use ‘hope’.)
Using ‘Wish’ and ‘Hope’ in Sentences
Here are some more examples of how to use ‘wish’ and ‘hope’ correctly in sentences:
‘Wish’ examples:
- I wish I had a pet dog.
- She wishes the weather was nicer today.
- He wishes he could play soccer better.
- They wish they had more free time.
- We wish the holidays would last longer.
‘Hope’ examples:
- I hope to find a good job soon.
- She hopes her team wins the game.
- He hopes to pass his exam.
- They hope to go on vacation next summer.
- We hope the traffic is not too bad.
Summary
In summary, the difference between ‘wish’ and ‘hope’ is:
- ‘Wish’ is used for things that are very unlikely or almost impossible to happen.
- ‘Hope’ is used for things that have a chance or possibility of happening.
Remember this key difference, and you will be able to use these words correctly in English!
