希望

きぼう

hope, wish, aspiration

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"希望" (xīwàng) primarily means "to hope" or "hope" as a noun. It expresses a desire or expectation for something positive to happen. It can be used as a verb to indicate hoping for an event or outcome, or as a noun to describe a person's hopes or aspirations.

Common Collocations

Usage Notes

When used as a verb, 希望 is often followed by a clause introduced by "", "", or directly by a verb, expressing what the speaker wishes to happen. As a noun, it often appears with possessive structures (希望) or descriptive phrases.

Common Confusions

Don't confuse 希望 with (to want, to think). 希望 carries a stronger sense of expectation or wish for a positive outcome, often more formal or polite than .

Tone and Register

Hope is generally neutral and polite, suitable for both spoken and written Chinese. It is common in everyday conversation, formal writing, and media.

Example Sentences

I hope the weather will be clear tomorrow.

His hope is to become a doctor.

We all hope to pass the exam smoothly.

I hope you can understand my thoughts.

She is full of hope for the future.