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 I didn't eat that last night. → I wish I hadn't eaten that last night.
   past regret → past perfect
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 ate too much pizza. I wish I _____ so much. (didn't eat / hadn't eaten / don't eat)
5. She _____ she was taller. (wish / wishes / wishing)
6. I don't know the answer. I wish I _____ it. (know / knew / had know)
7. I missed the bus. If only I _____ earlier! (left / had left / leave)
8. I wish I _____ taller — I could reach the top shelf. (am / were / be)

Complete the wish

Write the missing word or words.

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. I didn't bring my coat. I wish I   my coat.
4. We aren't on holiday. I wish we   on holiday.
5. My brother doesn't help at home. I wish he   more.
6. I told her the secret. I wish I   told her.

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. hadn't eaten — A regret about the past → past perfect: hadn't eaten.
5. wishes — She → wishes.
6. knew — Present → past simple: I wish I knew.
7. had left — Past regret → had left.
8. were — wish + were for all persons.

Complete the wish

1. had
2. could
3. had brought
4. were
5. helped
6. hadn't