hopefully

adverb

hope·​ful·​ly ˈhōp-fə-lē 

1

: in a way that expresses desire with an expectation of fulfillment : in a hopeful manner

gazed up at us hopefully

2

: it is hoped : I hope : we hope

hopefully the rain will end soon

Can hopefully mean 'I hope'?: Usage Guide

In the 1960s the second sense of hopefully ("it is hoped"), which dates to the 17th century and has been in fairly widespread use since at least the 1930s, underwent a surge in popularity. A surge of criticism followed in reaction, despite the fact that this use is grammatically sound. Hopefully when used to mean "it is hoped" is a member of a class of adverbs and adverbial phrases known as disjuncts. Disjuncts provide a means for the author or speaker to comment directly to the reader or hearer usually on the content of the sentence to which they are attached. Many other adverbs (such as interestingly, frankly, clearly, luckily, and unfortunately) are similarly used; most are so ordinary as to excite no comment or interest whatsoever. The "it is hoped" sense of hopefully is entirely standard.

Examples of hopefully in a Sentence

They gazed up at us hopefully.

Hopefully, things will get better soon.

Recent Examples on the Web

So now we’re left with only one more chance for live competition for Young and company, hopefully with the two starting guards back to help him out and with Tetairoa McMillan, Coker and Xavier Legette at least combining for a few receptions. — Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 16 Aug. 2026

This week's total solar eclipse captured the world's attention, and millions of skywatchers looked up (with the correct protective eyewear, hopefully) to experience the moon blocking out our star's light. — Chelsea Gohd, Space.com, 14 Aug. 2026

The plan is to keep being nonchalant about the whole thing, and hopefully their fan base will continue to grow. — Julius Miller, Los Angeles Times, 14 Aug. 2026

The Dolphins swapped late-round picks in 2028 and 2029 with New England to acquire the former Penn State offensive lineman the Patriots intended on releasing Monday so the Dolphins could hopefully supplement the weakest unit on the roster. — Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 14 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Video

Hopefully

We believe the popular usage of this word is correct

Kids Definition

hopefully

adverb

hope·​ful·​ly ˈhōp-fə-lē 

1

: in a hopeful manner

a dog looking hopefully for a tidbit

2

: I hope : we hope

hopefully it won't rain tomorrow