To express a strong hope or desire, Portuguese uses the word oxalá ("hopefully" or "I really hope"). Because it expresses a wish rather than a certainty, it is followed by the subjunctive mood.
Notice how the verbs following oxalá take their subjunctive forms (such as seja from ser, or esteja from estar).
| Hopefully the resort is fantastic! | Oxalá o resort seja fantástico! |
| I hope the breakfast is included in the rate. | Oxalá o pequeno-almoço esteja incluído na tarifa. |
| I hope the stay at the resort is relaxing. | Oxalá a estadia no resort seja relaxante. |
Longing for something: Quem me dera
To express a deep, personal longing—like "I wish" or "if only"—use the phrase quem me dera.
When the wish is about an action you want to do yourself, quem me dera is followed directly by the infinitive form of the verb.
| I wish I were in that relaxing resort! | Quem me dera estar naquele resort relaxante! |
| I wish I could book the most expensive room in the resort. | Quem me dera reservar o quarto mais caro do resort. |
| I wish I could enjoy the peace in paradise. | Quem me dera desfrutar do sossego no paraíso. |
These expressions are perfect for daydreaming about your next getaway and finally enjoying some peace and quiet!
Your questions are stored by us to improve Elon.io