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

Ali Vaez, an Iran analyst at International Crisis Group, said the idea that American and Israeli bombing would trigger a popular uprising in Iran is wishful thinking.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 28, 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

He imagined the Fates up in Olympus, laughing at his wishful thinking: LOL, NOOB!

From "The House of Hades" by Rick Riordan