wishes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wishes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a desire or hope for something to happen, often in a formal or polite context. Example: "She sends her best wishes for your success in the upcoming competition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Supposedly, or so I have heard, some expect my speech to pave the way for a fundamental reform of the European architecture, which will satisfy all kinds of alleged or actual British wishes.

The Guardian

Thank you for your extraordinary service to our country, and best wishes for continued success in the important endeavors that lie ahead for our country and our Agency.

The Guardian

She adds that if the government wishes to support the arts, it does not need to build a new theatre.

The Guardian

"Of course, Owen goes with our best wishes," said Easterby before adding: "We'd like to be clear that we had discussed a new contract with him, and made his representative fully aware of our willingness to discuss securing his future as a rugby professional with us.

The Guardian - Sport

A person leaves a comment beneath an article which he then wishes he hadn't made.

The Guardian - Opinion

Brown, who was under some pressure anyway at the start of his second season since succeeding Ashley Giles at Edgbaston, was left in an invidious position as Warwickshire accommodated Jonathan Trott's wishes to come straight back to first-class cricket, four months after his abrupt departure from England's Ashes tour.

The Guardian - Sport

One writes back straight away, sighing over how she wishes she could have a "me time" holiday too.

The Guardian - Travel

That doesn't mean that one can fulfil all wishes, but it means that elsewhere one perhaps can think about what is very important for Britain," Merkel said.

The Guardian

(The man, the Guardian understands, wishes to be anonymous; his current attorney declined to confirm Solowiej's account).

The Guardian

If it wishes to sustain public service broadcasting there needs to be certain things that help sustain it, that you trade for those [PSB] obligations and one of those things historically has been EPG prominence," he added.

The Guardian

When the next person wishes to talk they pass on the main ball of string but keep hold of one section.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to multiple desires or aspirations, "wishes" is the appropriate plural form. Ensure the verb agreement matches when using it as a noun.

Common error

Avoid using "wish" as a plural noun. Always use "wishes" when referring to multiple desires or expressing general goodwill. For example, say "best wishes" not "best wish".

Linguistic Context

The word "wishes" primarily functions as a plural noun, denoting multiple desires, hopes, or expressions of goodwill. It can also function as a verb in the third-person singular present tense, as demonstrated by Ludwig's analysis and examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Formal & Business

24%

Opinion

14%

Less common in

Travel

6%

Sport

6%

Lifestyle

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "wishes" is a grammatically sound and versatile word functioning primarily as a plural noun or a third-person singular verb. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is frequently used across a wide range of contexts, particularly in news, business, and opinion pieces. When looking for a similar term, consider alternatives such as "desires", "hopes", or "aspirations" to add nuance to your writing. Remember to use "wishes" for multiple desires or when expressing goodwill, and avoid using "wish" as a plural noun. With this understanding, you can confidently and correctly incorporate "wishes" into your vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

desires

Focuses on a strong feeling of wanting something.

hopes

Emphasizes a feeling of optimism that something will happen.

aspirations

Refers to ambitions or long-term goals.

expectations

Highlights anticipated outcomes or beliefs about the future.

ambitions

Refers to a strong desire to achieve something, often with effort.

intentions

Focuses on planned actions or purposes.

preferences

Indicates choices or favored options.

requests

Implies a formal appeal or demand.

longings

Conveys a deep yearning or craving.

yearnings

Similar to "longings", suggesting a sentimental desire.

FAQs

How do I use "wishes" in a sentence?

You can use "wishes" to express hopes or desires, like "She sends her best "wishes" for your success" or "He accommodated their "wishes" regarding the project".

What's a more formal synonym for "wishes"?

Depending on the context, more formal synonyms for "wishes" include "desires", "aspirations", or "expectations".

Is it correct to say "I send you my wish" instead of "wishes"?

While grammatically possible, "I send you my wish" is less common and sounds less natural than "I send you my "wishes"". The latter is a standard expression for conveying goodwill.

When is it appropriate to use "wishes" versus "hopes"?

"Wishes" often implies a more general expression of goodwill, while "hopes" tends to focus on anticipated outcomes. For example, you might send your best "wishes" for a birthday, but express "hopes" for a successful surgery.