Wish

We use "wish" to express that we want a situation to be different. We use different tenses after "wish" depending on whether we're talking about the present, past, or future. "Wish" expresses an unreal desire — something that is not true or very unlikely.

• • Wish + past simple = wish about the present (contrary to reality).
• • Wish + past perfect = wish about the past (regret).
• • Wish + would = wish about someone else's future behaviour (often expressing annoyance).
• • Use "were" instead of "was" after "wish" in formal writing: "I wish I were taller."
• • Never use "wish + would" to talk about your own future wishes — use "hope" instead.

1. 1

   Wishing the present were different

   I wish I spoke Spanish fluently.

2. 2

   Regretting a past action

   I wish I hadn't eaten so much.

3. 3

   Wishing something had happened in the past

   I wish you had told me earlier.

4. 4

   Expressing annoyance about someone's habits

   I wish you would stop talking during the film.

5. 5

   Wishing for an unlikely future change

   I wish the weather would improve.

• Wish + past simple = wish the present were different.
• Wish + past perfect = regret about the past.
• Wish + would = expressing annoyance or a desire for change in someone's behaviour.
• Use "were" (not "was") in formal writing: "I wish I were..."
• Don't use "wish + would" about your own actions.
• "Hope" is used for realistic future possibilities; "wish" is for unlikely or impossible situations.

Two friends are talking after a stressful day at work.