Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

wishful-thinking

noun
/ˈwɪʃfəl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/
Definition
The tendency to believe or hope for things that are unlikely to happen, often ignoring reality.
Examples
  • His wishful thinking led him to believe he would win the lottery without actually buying a ticket.
  • Many people engage in wishful thinking instead of preparing for potential challenges.
Meaning
Wishful thinking refers to a state of mind where one hopes for something to occur, despite the absence of evidence or likelihood that it will happen.
Synonyms
  • fantasy
  • pipe dream
  • delusion
  • illusion
  • naivete