'I hope so' vs 'I should hope so'

[Offroad]

Dear teachers...

Is there any difference between these two?

- He's going to win the game!
- I should hope so!
- I hope so!

- Don't do that! It's very offensive!
- I should hope so!
- I hope so!

For me, they mean nearly the same, maybe 'should' adds some emphasis.

Thanks

 

[birdeen's call]

Dear teachers...

Is there any difference between these two?

- He's going to win the game!
- I should hope so!
- I hope so!

- Don't do that! It's very offensive!
- I should hope so!
- I hope so!

For me, they mean nearly the same, maybe 'should' adds some emphasis.

Thanks

The basic meaning is the same and "should" does indeed add emphasis.

In your first example, you would say, "I should hope so!" if, for example, you were the coach and had put a lot of effort into coaching him:

"He's going to win the game!"
"I should hope so! With his preparation, it would be ridiculous if he lost!"

"Don't do that! It's very offensive!"
"I should hope so! I spent hours thinking this through!"

But "should" may also express uncertainty:

"Are you sure you've packed everything you need?"
"I should think so... But I'll check again -- you can't be too careful about these things."