Basic Details
Word: Wishfully
Part of Speech: Adverb
Meaning: In a way that expresses a hope or desire for something that may not happen.
Synonyms: Dreamily, optimistically, idealistically
Antonyms: Realistically, pragmatically
Idioms and Phrases
- Wishful thinking: Thinking that something will happen when it is unlikely to occur. Example: "Hoping my team will win the game without practicing is just wishful thinking."
- Wishing on a star: Making a wish with the hope that it will come true. Example: "As she stared at the night sky, she closed her eyes and was wishing on a star."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She looked wishfully at the beautiful new bicycle in the shop window, hoping her parents might buy it for her.
Example 2: After the exam, he sat wishfully, imagining the day he'd finally graduate.
Example 3: Although he had not received an invitation, she wishfully thought that he would show up at the party.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the term "wishful thinking" was used in a psychological context as early as the 1940s? It helps describe when people believe something can happen simply because they want it to.
Famous Quote
"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." Eleanor Roosevelt
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "wishfully" mean?
a) In a very realistic way
b) In a way expressing a hope or desire
c) Quickly and carelessly
d) With great impatience
Answer: b) In a way expressing a hope or desire
2. Which of these is a synonym of "wishfully"?
a) Dreamily
b) Disappointedly
c) Honestly
d) Angrily
Answer: a) Dreamily
3. What is an antonym of "wishfully"?
a) Optimistically
b) Honestly
c) Realistically
d) Haphazardly
Answer: c) Realistically
4. Which sentence uses "wishfully" correctly?
a) She wishfully finished her homework early to have time for fun.
b) He wishfully decided to work hard for the school play.
c) The dog wishfully barked at the passing car.
d) They stared wishfully into the future, dreaming of their adventures.
Answer: d) They stared wishfully into the future, dreaming of their adventures.
5. What does "wishful thinking" mean?
a) Planning ahead with clear goals
b) Hoping something will happen that is unlikely
c) Thinking about the past
d) Being sensible and pragmatic
Answer: b) Hoping something will happen that is unlikely
