When describing desires or hopes, there is a subtle difference in how we use “hope” and “wish”.
Hope
We use “hope” to describe something that could likely happen. It is very possible for this desire to come true. Here are some examples:
- I hope it is sunny on the wedding day.
- I hope I get a good grade on the test.
- I hope a lot of my friends can come to the party.
The word “that” can optionally be used after “hope” in all of these sentences, however it is common to drop this word when speaking and writing. (Example: I hope [that] it is sunny on the wedding day.)
Also note that the verb that follows the “hope” uses the simple form, as shown in italics.
Wish
When we use “wish”, it is more often for situations that are unrealistic, or that simply are not reality. There is no reason to “hope” for them, because we already know they won’t happen. Some examples:
- I wish you were able to come, but I know you will be gone on vacation.
- I wish I had enough money to buy my own airplane
- I wish I had bought the house ten years ago when I could afford it.
Note that in these cases, the verb that comes after the “wish” uses the subjunctive mood, as shown in italics.
However, we can also use “wish” to express that we hope for good things for our family, friends, etc. In these cases, we are wishing for a specific thing for a person. Usually the wish is for a noun (usually happiness, health, or something good) and not for a specific action to occur. Examples:
- We wish you a Merry Christmas.
- I wish you all the best on your birthday.
- I wish you happiness and health in the new year.
- We wish her a speedy recovery.
