Spanish Word of the Day: Ojalá (hopefully)

The word ojalá originates from the Arabic phrase in shā’ Allāh, translating to if God wills or God willing. This reflects the historical influence of the Moorish occupation of Spain, which lasted from 711 to 1492.

The best translations for ojalá are I hope, I wish, and hopefully, a term frequently used in everyday conversation, which carries a blend of hope, wishes, and desire. I hope and I wish are direct translations used to express a personal hope or wish for something to happen, while hopefully is an adverbial form that conveys a similar sense of optimism about future events.

Ojalá is often followed by a verb in the subjunctive mood, which is used to express doubt, uncertainty, or subjectivity. Here are some common ways to use it:

• Expressing a desire for the future:
  • Ojalá que tengamos buen tiempo mañana = I hope we have good weather tomorrow.
• Expressing regret or a wish about the past:
  • Ojalá hubiera estudiado más para el examen = I wish I had studied more for the exam.)
• Expressing uncertain or unrealistic hopes:
  • Ojalá gane la lotería = I hope I win the lottery.

In each of these cases, ojalá introduces a statement reflecting a desire or hope that may or may not come true.

Ojalá vs Ojalá qué

Ojalá is often used on its own or before a verb in the subjunctive mood. You can add que after to make it slightly more formal, with a bit more emphasis or clarity. It’s more common in written Spanish or in more formal spoken contexts. Both forms are grammatically correct and used interchangeably, with the choice often depending on personal preference or the context of the conversation.

Ojalá is frequently used in everyday conversation to express hopes and wishes. Its use ranges from casual wishes, like hoping for good weather, to deep, heartfelt desires.

Idiomatic expressions with ‘ojalá’