ojalá
/oxaˈla/
The Spanish phrase ojalá.
What does it mean word for word?
Etymologically, ojalá is derived from the Arabic phrase law šá lláh, which means "if God wills".
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase is almost always followed by a verb in the subjunctive mood. Additionally, you can follow ojalá with the conjunction que without changing the meaning of the phrase.
How do you pronounce it?
/oxaˈla/
Did you know?
- In some contexts, ojalá can be used sarcastically to imply that the speaker believes the event they are 'hoping' for is actually impossible.
- In Spanish, you can say ojalá on its own as a complete sentence to express a strong wish or a longing for something to happen.
- Depending on the verb tense that follows ojalá, the phrase can express a realistic hope for the future or a nostalgic regret for something that can never happen.
Examples in context
- Ojalá que haga buen tiempo mañana.Hopefully the weather will be good tomorrow.
- Dios quiera que todo salga bien.God willing, everything will turn out well.
- Ojalá que él encuentre trabajo pronto.I hope he finds a job soon.
- Ojalá que mañana haga buen tiempo.I hope the weather is good tomorrow.
- Ojalá podamos ir de vacaciones pronto.I hope we can go on vacation soon.
- Ojalá me llames más tarde.I hope you call me later.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about a job interview.
- SofíaTu entrevista fue muy buena, ¿verdad?Your interview went very well, right?
- AlejandroSí, ojalá me den el puesto.Yes, I hope they give me the position.
- SofíaSeguro que te llamarán pronto.I'm sure they will call you soon.
- AlejandroGracias, Sofía. Eso espero.Thanks, Sofia. I hope so.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ojalá, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
