Translation guide
The English word 'hope' can be expressed in Japanese through nouns, verbs, and set phrases. The most common and versatile word is 希望 (きぼう), which works in both formal and everyday contexts. For casual speech, the phrase 〜といい (to ii) is frequently used to express a wish or hope. Learners should be careful not to overuse literal translations like 望む (のぞむ), which can sound stiff or literary.
Expressing a desire for something to happen or be true, without specifying a concrete plan.
The most common and neutral noun for 'hope'. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Often used with する to mean 'to hope'.
I hope for his recovery.
Let's keep hope alive.
A casual, everyday pattern meaning 'I hope (something happens)'. Attach to the plain form of a verb or adjective. Often used with ね for a softer tone.
I hope it's sunny tomorrow.
A verb meaning 'to hope' or 'to desire'. More formal and often used in written language or strong wishes. Can sound too direct in casual speech.
A verb meaning 'to wish' or 'to hope', often with a nuance of praying or earnestly desiring. Common in set phrases like 願っています.
Referring to the emotion of hope or optimistic expectation.
Means 'expectation' or 'anticipation'. Often used when you have a reason to believe something good will happen. Can be used with する.
I have high hopes for his new work.
A noun meaning 'hope' or 'wish', often used in more emotional or literary contexts. Can also mean 'desire'.
Expressing a hope that another person will do something.
Used to say 'I want (someone) to do something' or 'I hope (someone) does something'. Attach to the te-form of a verb.
I hope you come home soon.
A softer, more tentative way to say 'I hope...'. Often used when you're not sure if your hope will be realized.
I hope he comes (but I'm not sure).
Formal expressions of hope, often used in speeches, letters, or polite conversation.
A polite pattern used when praying or wishing for something. Often used at temples or in formal wishes.
I hope I can pass.
A very formal expression meaning 'I pray for...' or 'I hope for...'. Used in formal letters or speeches.
While 望む (nozomu) translates to 'hope', it can sound overly dramatic or formal in everyday conversation. Stick to 希望 or 〜といい for most situations.
希望 (kibō) is a general hope or wish, while 期待 (kitai) implies expectation based on some evidence or reason. Use 期待 when you have grounds for your hope.
I hope you feel better soon.
試験に合格するといいな。
I hope you pass the exam.
平和を望む。
I hope for peace.
ご成功を願っています。
I hope for your success.
望みを捨てないで。
Don't give up hope.
I hope for everyone's good health.