⇒ The subjunctive (el subjuntivo) is one of three moods in Spanish, and it is often used to talk about emotions.

⇒ It is always used after the word ojalá, which means I hope or I wish.

⇒ Many of the verbs and phrases that require the subjunctive fit into the acronym WEIRDO: Wishes, Emotions, Impersonal expressions, Recommendations, Doubt/Denial, and Ojalá

⇒ In these notes, we're going to take a look at the word ojalá.

⇒ Ojalá is a Spanish word of Arabic origin. Originally, it meant something like Oh, Allah and may have been used in prayers.

⇒ In modern times, it has taken on several more general meanings, such as I hope/pray to God, God willing, I hope, I wish or if only.

⇒ Ojalá is followed by a verb in the subjunctive whether or not it is used with the relative pronoun que.

⇒ Check out these examples with ojalá:

¡Ojalá que recuerde nuestro aniversario! I hope to God he remembers our anniversary.

¡Ojalá no llueva! I hope it doesn't rain!

¡Ojalá que venga mi primo a visitarnos. I hope my cousin comes to visit us.

Ojalá mis papás me compren un cachorro. I hope my parents buy me a puppy.

⇒ You can find more on the differences between the subjunctive and the indicative here!