Synonyms for

Wishing

Verb / ˈwɪʃɪŋ / Another word for wishing — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To feel or express a strong desire or hope for something that is not easily attainable.

Synonyms & similar words

bid wishwell like wish begrudge care want hoping desiring craving longing yearning aspiring dreaming praying wanting coveting fantasizing envying pining hankering itching aching thirsting craving burning lusting

Synonyms by register

Formal

desire yearning longing aspiration

Informal

hoping dreaming fingers crossed

Literary

yearning craving fancy

Antonyms

hopelessness despair resignation acceptance realism pragmatism

Common collocations

  • make a wish
  • wish for the moon
  • wishful thinking
  • wish come true
  • wish you were here
  • wish you well
  • wish list

Word family

noun wish
verb wish
adjective wishful

Usage note

Wishing often implies a desire for something unlikely or impossible. 'Wishful thinking' refers to the belief that something is true because one wants it to be.

Example sentences

  1. I am wishing for a sunny day so I can play outside.
  2. She is wishing for a puppy for Christmas.
  3. He is wishing for good grades on his report card.
  4. They are wishing for a vacation to the beach.
  5. We are all wishing for good health and happiness.

Quotes

  • A dream becomes a goal when action is taken toward its achievement. - Bo Bennett
  • If you can dream it, you can achieve it. - Zig Ziglar
  • The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. - Eleanor Roosevelt

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words