I really hope

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I really hope" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are expressing your hope or wish for something to happen. For example, "I really hope that you'll have a safe journey."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I really hope it works".

The New York Times - Tech

I really hope this works".

The New York Times

"I really hope not.

The New York Times - Sports

I really hope he is right.

The New York Times

I really hope they resolve it.

The New York Times

I really hope this doesn't happen.

Independent

"I really hope it does inspire them.

Independent

I really hope you accept my shirt.

Independent

Oh, man, I really hope not.

Independent

But I really hope it flourishes".

Independent

I really hope these guys are wrong.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When expressing a desire for a positive outcome, use "I really hope" to convey sincerity and personal investment in the result.

Common error

Avoid overusing "I really hope" in formal or business writing. Opt for more professional alternatives such as "I am hopeful that" or "It is my expectation that" to maintain a polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I really hope" functions as an expression of personal desire or anticipation. According to Ludwig, it's used to convey a wish for a particular outcome, whether positive or negative, and often implies a degree of uncertainty about whether the desired outcome will occur.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I really hope" is a versatile phrase used to express a sincere wish or desire for a particular outcome. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While suitable for most situations, it's advisable to consider more formal alternatives like "I sincerely hope" in professional settings. The phrase functions to communicate personal feelings and expectations, and is generally perceived as having a neutral register. With a wide range of alternatives, writers can tailor their expression of hope to suit the specific context and tone. The provided examples and analysis aim to guide users in effectively and appropriately using this common expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I sincerely hope

Emphasizes the earnestness of the hope.

I truly hope

Stresses the genuineness of the hope.

I earnestly hope

Highlights the intensity and seriousness of the hope.

I am hopeful that

Uses a more formal and declarative structure.

I wish that

Expresses a desire for something to happen, often implying it might not.

I am keeping my fingers crossed that

Adds an element of superstition or luck.

It is my hope that

A more formal and distanced way of expressing hope.

Let's hope that

Shifts the focus to a general hope shared with others.

I am crossing my fingers that

Suggests wishful thinking with uncertainty.

Fingers crossed

A shorter more informal expression of hope that may or may not include "I".

FAQs

How can I use "I really hope" in a sentence?

You can use "I really hope" to express a strong desire or wish for something. For example, "I really hope you have a great time on your vacation".

What's a more formal way to say "I really hope"?

In formal settings, you can use phrases like "I sincerely hope", "I am hopeful that", or "It is my hope that" to convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

What are some alternatives to "I really hope" that express a similar sentiment?

Alternatives include phrases like "I sincerely hope", "I truly hope", or "I earnestly hope", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "I really hope" appropriate for all types of writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the context. In very formal writing, a more nuanced or sophisticated alternative might be preferable. In casual settings, it is perfectly appropriate.