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
With such obvious volatility in play, however, trying to lay odds on the immediate future seems only wishful thinking.
—
Erik Sherman, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2025
Athletic Director Jeramiah Dickey is adamant that the new Pac-12, which will contain just two members from the old league, will be considered a Power Five conference — something that might be wishful thinking.
—Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 28 Aug. 2025
Such reunions are often wishful thinking from a local fanbase and rarely come to fruition.
—Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 22 Aug. 2025
The idea that Dallas will find a quality starter on the street or from the group mentioned is wishful thinking.
—Jon MacHota, New York Times, 29 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for wishful thinking
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Erik Sherman, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2025
Athletic Director Jeramiah Dickey is adamant that the new Pac-12, which will contain just two members from the old league, will be considered a Power Five conference — something that might be wishful thinking.
—Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 28 Aug. 2025
Such reunions are often wishful thinking from a local fanbase and rarely come to fruition.
—Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 22 Aug. 2025
The idea that Dallas will find a quality starter on the street or from the group mentioned is wishful thinking.
—Jon MacHota, New York Times, 29 July 2025
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 7 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share