we hoped for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we hoped for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a desire or expectation for something to happen in the past. Example: "After months of preparation, we hoped for a successful outcome at the event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We hoped for an hour.

The New Yorker

We hoped for sunshine.

The New York Times

"We hoped for more," younger selves cry.

The Guardian - Tech

We hoped for a new start.

The New York Times

This was all that we hoped for".

The New York Times

We hoped for better under New Labour.

The Guardian

"The implementation has not been what we hoped for".

The New York Times

We hoped for a good job in the future".

The New York Times

"This is way beyond what we hoped for," Lancaster said.

The New York Times - Sports

That's what we hoped for at the beginning".

The New York Times

"That was what we hoped for," Ms. Davis said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we hoped for" to express a past expectation or desire that may or may not have been fulfilled. It's effective for conveying a sense of anticipation or aspiration regarding past events.

Common error

Avoid using "we hope for" when discussing past events. "We hope for" implies a current or future expectation, while "we hoped for" correctly refers to a past aspiration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we hoped for" functions as a past tense expression of expectation or desire. It typically introduces a clause specifying the object of that hope. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we hoped for" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express past expectations or desires. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "we wished for" or "we anticipated" exist, "we hoped for" effectively conveys a sense of anticipation or longing for a past event. Remember to avoid using present tense forms when referring to past aspirations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we wished for

Replaces "hoped" with "wished", emphasizing a stronger desire, though the core meaning remains similar.

we anticipated

Focuses on expecting something to happen, possibly with less emotional investment than "hoped".

we expected

Indicates a belief that something was likely to occur, potentially based on evidence or prior experience.

we looked forward to

Highlights the positive anticipation and pleasure associated with an upcoming event or outcome.

we had expectations for

Emphasizes the existence of specific beliefs about what would happen.

we were aiming for

Focuses on the goal or target that was being pursued.

we desired

Indicates a strong feeling of wanting something.

we yearned for

Conveys a deep longing or craving.

it was our expectation

Shifts the focus to the expectation itself, rather than the act of hoping.

our anticipation was

Similar to "it was our expectation", highlighting the state of anticipation.

FAQs

How can I use "we hoped for" in a sentence?

Use "we hoped for" to describe a past expectation or desire. For instance, "After the long journey, "we hoped for" a comfortable bed and a good night's sleep."

What are some alternatives to "we hoped for"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "we wished for", "we anticipated", or "we expected".

Is it correct to say "we hope for" when referring to a past event?

No, "we hope for" is present tense. To refer to a past hope or expectation, use ""we hoped for"". For example, "We hope for good weather tomorrow" (future) vs. "We hoped for sunshine on our vacation" (past).

What's the difference between "we hoped for" and "we are hoping for"?

"We hoped for" refers to a past desire or expectation that may or may not have been fulfilled. "We are hoping for" indicates a current desire or expectation for something in the future.