Hoffen
Hoffen is a German verb that translates to "to hope" in English. It expresses a desire or expectation for a positive outcome or event. It implies a sense of optimism, even if the probability of the desired outcome is uncertain.
Grammatical Information:
- Part of Speech: Verb
- Transitivity: Intransitive (generally does not take a direct object, but can be used with prepositional phrases)
- Principal Forms:
- Present tense: hoffen (ich hoffe, du hoffst, er/sie/es hofft, wir hoffen, ihr hofft, sie hoffen)
- Past tense: hoffte (ich hoffte, du hofftest, er/sie/es hoffte, wir hofften, ihr hofftet, sie hofften)
- Past participle: gehofft (gehofft haben)
- Subjunctive II: hoffte (ich hoffte, etc.)
Usage Notes:
The verb hoffen is often used with the preposition auf (on/for) followed by the accusative case, indicating the object of hope. For example, "Ich hoffe auf gutes Wetter" (I hope for good weather). It can also be followed by a dass clause (that clause) to express the content of the hope, such as "Ich hoffe, dass du gesund bist" (I hope that you are healthy).
Related Terms:
- Die Hoffnung (noun): hope
- Hoffnungsvoll (adjective): hopeful
- Verhoffen (verb): to expect, to rely on (often carries a stronger sense of certainty than hoffen)
- Sich erhoffen (reflexive verb): to expect for oneself, to hope to gain
Figurative Usage:
Similar to the English verb "hope," hoffen can be used in a variety of contexts beyond literal expectations. It can express a general desire for improvement or a better future. It can also convey a sense of aspiration or ambition.