Wish and If Only

Reference

Common mistakes

1. I wish I have a car. → I wish I had a car.
   present situation → past simple
2. I wish I can drive. → I wish I could drive.
   can → could after wish
3. I wish you have a good trip. → I hope you have a good trip.
   a possible future → hope
4. She wish she was older. → She wishes she was older.
   he / she → wishes

Wish and If Only — Exercises

Choose the correct form

Circle the correct answer.

1. I live in a tiny flat. I wish I _____ in a bigger one. (live / lived / will live)
2. I can't play the guitar. I wish I _____ play it. (can / could / would)
3. It's raining again. If only it _____ sunny! (is / was / has been)
4. I _____ you have a lovely holiday! (hope / wish / want)
5. She _____ she was taller. (wish / wishes / wishing)
6. I don't know the answer. I wish I _____ it. (know / knew / had know)
7. My friends are all at the beach. I wish I _____ there too. (am / were / be)
8. I wish it _____ so expensive — I can't buy it. (wasn't / isn't / won't be)

Complete the wish

Write the missing word.

1. I don't have a bike. I wish I   a bike.
2. I can't come to the concert. If only I   come!
3. We aren't on holiday. I wish we   on holiday.
4. My brother doesn't help at home. I wish he   more.
5. I   you get the job — good luck!
6. I live far from my friends. I wish I   closer to them.

Wish and If Only — Answer Key

Choose the correct form

1. lived — A present situation you want to change → past simple: I wish I lived.
2. could — can → could after wish.
3. was — Present reality (rain) → past simple: if only it was (or were) sunny.
4. hope — A possible future → hope + present.
5. wishes — She → wishes.
6. knew — Present → past simple: I wish I knew.
7. were — wish + were.
8. wasn't — Negative present wish → wasn't (or weren't).

Complete the wish

1. had
2. could
3. were
4. helped
5. hope
6. lived