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  What it means

  Literally “wish-based thinking,” this is the direct equivalent of “wishful thinking.” It refers to the formation of beliefs based on what might be pleasing to imagine rather than on evidence or reality. It is a common term in psychology, politics, and daily life to point out that someone is being unrealistic because they want a specific outcome too badly.

  Vocabulary

  • myślenie — thinking (verbal noun)
  • życzeniowy — wish-based / wishful
  • rzeczywistość — reality
  • łudzić się — to delude oneself

  Grammar note

  'Myślenie' is a verbal noun (gerund) derived from 'myśleć.' The adjective 'życzeniowy' is derived from 'życzenie' (a wish).

  Cultural context

  This is a neutral, slightly intellectual term. It is often used by commentators to criticize plans that lack a solid foundation in facts.

  Intermediate

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