I was hoping for a slightly different outcome.

Meaning

Expressing disappointment subtly.

Examples

• John: The negotiations didn't go as planned.
• Alice: I'm sorry to hear that. <b>I was hoping for a slightly different outcome</b>.
• John: Me too. It's a setback, but we'll move forward.
• Alice: Yes, we need to re-evaluate our approach. <b>I was hoping for a slightly different outcome</b> as well.