Expressing Hopes & Wishes in English

Expressing Hopes & Wishes in English 

When we talk about the future, our dreams, or situations we’d like to change, we often use the language of hope and wish. These phrases make your English sound thoughtful, emotional, and beautifully precise. For Cambridge B2 First and C1 Advanced learners, mastering them is especially valuable — they help you write more naturally and speak with confidence and nuance. Expressing Hopes & Wishes in English

Below, you’ll find a clear guide to the most useful phrases, with simple explanations and plenty of example sentences.

Expressions with “hope”

We use hope for something we want to happen in the future, and we believe it is possible or likely.

I hope…

Used for general wishes about the present or future.

• I hope you have a wonderful time in London.
• I hope everything works out well for you.

I’m hoping…

More personal and emotional; often used when we’re waiting for something.

• I’m hoping the weather improves before the weekend.
• I’m hoping she’ll call me back soon.

I really hope that…

We use this when the feeling is strong or sincere.

• I really hope that you pass your exam — you’ve worked so hard.
• I really hope that we can meet this summer.

Hopefully…

An adverb meaning I hope that…

• Hopefully, the traffic won’t be too bad.
• Hopefully, we’ll finish the project on time.

Expressions with “wish”

We use wish for situations that are not real, unlikely, or impossible. The grammar changes depending on what we are wishing about.

I wish + past simple

For wishes about the present that are not true.

• I wish I had more free time. (But I don’t.)
• I wish she lived closer. (But she doesn’t.)

I wish + could

For something we want to be able to do, but cannot (now or in the future).

• I wish I could speak Japanese fluently.
• I wish we could go to the concert, but it’s sold out.

I wish + past perfect

For regrets and wishes about the past — things we cannot change.

• I wish I had studied harder at university.
• I wish you had told me about the problem earlier.

I wish + would

For complaining about things we want other people or the world to change.

• I wish people would stop littering.
• I wish my neighbours would turn the music down.

Other Useful Phrases for Expressing Wishes and Hopes

Fingers crossed / I’m keeping my fingers crossed

A friendly, idiomatic way to express hope.

• Fingers crossed you get the job!
• I’m keeping my fingers crossed for good news.

With any luck…

Used when we want something to happen and think there’s a fair chance.

• With any luck, we’ll arrive before the storm hits.
• With any luck, the repairs won’t cost too much.

Here’s hoping…

A cheerful way to express hope.

• Here’s hoping everything goes well today!
• Here’s hoping they accept our proposal.

If only…

Expresses strong wishes about the present or past.

• If only I knew the answer!
• If only we had left earlier, we wouldn’t have missed the train.

I long to / I long for

A more literary, emotional way to express a deep wish or desire.

• I long to travel the world one day.
• She longs for a peaceful life in the countryside.

I’m dying to… (informal)

A fun, enthusiastic way to express a strong wish.

• I’m dying to see that new film.
• We’re dying to try the new restaurant in town.

How to Use These Phrases in Everyday Communication

In conversations

Using hopes and wishes makes your English sound more human and expressive:

• I hope your presentation goes well.
• I wish I could join you, but I’m working late.

In emails

Perfect for polite, friendly communication:

• I hope this message finds you well.
• I hope to hear from you soon.

In Cambridge speaking & writing

These expressions are excellent for:

• Showing emotion
• Making arguments softer and more polite
• Sounding natural and fluent

For example:

• I wish more people would recycle — it would make a huge difference to the planet.
• Hopefully, the situation will improve over time.

Expressing hope and wishes isn’t just about grammar — it’s about showing your feelings, your dreams, and your attitude to life. Whether you’re writing for an exam, having everyday conversations, or sharing personal stories, these phrases allow you to communicate more naturally and confidently.

Encourage yourself to use them in your speaking and writing. With any luck, they’ll become a natural part of your English!

If you really want to learn English but don’t know how to do it and where to start, don’t hesitate to contact us. Book an online English lesson with one of our certified and experienced English teachers and take a test and consultation! Tap the banner to learn more!