hopefully

[ hohp-fuh-lee ]

adverb

1. in a hopeful manner:

   We worked hopefully and energetically, thinking we might finish first.

2. it is hoped; if all goes well:

   Hopefully, we will get to the show on time.

hopefully

/ ˈhəʊpfʊlɪ /

adverb

1. in a hopeful manner
2. informal.
   it is hoped

   hopefully they will be here soon

Usage Note

Although some strongly object to its use as a sentence modifier, hopefully meaning “it is hoped (that)” has been in use since the 1930s and is fully standard in all varieties of speech and writing: Hopefully, tensions between the two nations will ease. This use of hopefully is parallel to that of certainly, curiously, frankly, regrettably, and other sentence modifiers.

Usage

The use of hopefully to mean it is hoped used to be considered incorrect by some people but has now become acceptable in informal contexts

Word History and Origins

Origin of hopefully¹

First recorded in 1630–40; hopeful + -ly

Example Sentences

"Players come in and out of form. A lot of good performances tonight and hopefully we see the same at Wembley."

From BBC

“And I’m wishing him the best of health. And hopefully, I see him soon. It doesn’t even have to be on the sidelines. Hopefully I’ll just see him soon. That’s the most important for me.”

From Los Angeles Times

Shariyf said hopefully this state will serve as “an essential resource” in the Southwest, including Texas.

From Salon

Importantly, each one of those prior foundings was preceded by periods of crisis and conflict, many of which were much more violent and destructive than the one we’ve been in—so far; hopefully it stays that way.

From Slate

"That is where we are legally allowed to be physical and manhandle players, which will hopefully overflow into other moments on the field. When we scrum, we scrum to dominate."

From BBC

Related Words

• confidently
• surely