wishful thinking
noun
: the attribution of reality to what one wishes to be true or the tenuous justification of what one wants to believe
Examples of wishful thinking in a Sentence
The idea that the enemy will immediately surrender is nothing more than wishful thinking.
Recent Examples on the Web
Peters suggests any claim that the problem can be solved simply through economic growth is wishful thinking at best.
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Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Apr. 2026
The bottom line is that hoping a cold winter will mean fewer pests is wishful thinking.
—Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 2 Apr. 2026
But Democratic strategist Maria Cardona said that that’s wishful thinking and that ICE’s approach hasn’t substantially changed.
—Andrea Castillo, Los Angeles Times, 1 Apr. 2026
This is no longer speculation, rumor or civic wishful thinking.
—Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for wishful thinking
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Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Apr. 2026
The bottom line is that hoping a cold winter will mean fewer pests is wishful thinking.
—Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 2 Apr. 2026
But Democratic strategist Maria Cardona said that that’s wishful thinking and that ICE’s approach hasn’t substantially changed.
—Andrea Castillo, Los Angeles Times, 1 Apr. 2026
This is no longer speculation, rumor or civic wishful thinking.
—Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for wishful thinking
Cite this Entry
“Wishful thinking.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wishful%20thinking. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.
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