ojalar
VERB
(1)
[/oxaˈlaɾ/es-ES]
to wish
literal
/
to hope
neutral
/
to desire
colloquial
/
I wish
phrase
/
untranslatable
untranslatable
(The term 'ojalar' conveys a specific cultural sentiment of hoping for something with an implication of longing or wishfulness that does not have a direct single-word equivalent in English.)
To express a strong wish, hope, or longing for something to happen, often with a sense of earnestness or heartfelt desire. While it can be directly translated as 'to wish' or 'to hope,' the verb 'ojalar' specifically refers to the act of articulating or harboring a profound desire, akin to making a fervent prayer or uttering the Spanish interjection 'ojalá'. It encapsulates a sentiment of deep aspiration that something might come to pass, often implying a strong emotional investment or a yearning for an ideal outcome.
irregular note only if irregular
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- Ella ojalaba que el tiempo mejorara para su viaje. — She deeply wished that the weather would improve for her trip.
- Todos ojalaron un futuro de paz y prosperidad. — Everyone hoped for a future of peace and prosperity.
- Si uno ojala con el corazón, a veces los milagros ocurren. — If one truly wishes from the heart, sometimes miracles happen.