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
This is no longer speculation, rumor or civic wishful thinking.
—
Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Mar. 2026
In the House, top Republicans openly described it as wishful thinking due to their slim margins.
—David Sivak, The Washington Examiner, 28 Mar. 2026
Langmuir defined this as scientific wishful thinking, fantastic theories contrary to experience.
—Natalia Sánchez Loayza, Scientific American, 13 Mar. 2026
Perhaps owners harbor some wishful thinking about bargain-basement rates.
—Jonathan Lansner, Oc Register, 11 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for wishful thinking
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Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Mar. 2026
In the House, top Republicans openly described it as wishful thinking due to their slim margins.
—David Sivak, The Washington Examiner, 28 Mar. 2026
Langmuir defined this as scientific wishful thinking, fantastic theories contrary to experience.
—Natalia Sánchez Loayza, Scientific American, 13 Mar. 2026
Perhaps owners harbor some wishful thinking about bargain-basement rates.
—Jonathan Lansner, Oc Register, 11 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 4 Apr. 2026.
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