wishful

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.

“Hopes for a quick wind-down of the Iran war faded, contrary to the wishful market action earlier in the week,” writes Rosenberg Research’s David Rosenberg.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

It was confusion, or maybe wishful thinking, or was it outright defiance?

From Slate • Mar. 25, 2026

Modest to a fault, “Midwinter Break” seems to float like something cautious and wishful, hoping along with the audience that this union’s individual strains will fall into harmony once more.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2026

Bulls yelling “It’s the next gold!” is really more wishful thinking than reality.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 15, 2026

Would the people in the square think her news was just a child’s wishful thinking, or would they listen and be saved?

From "The City of Ember" by Jeanne DuPrau