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If only / I wish + simple past If only I knew how to use a computer. (I don’t know how to use a computer and I would like to learn how to use it); I wish I were a millionaire! start learning
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To express a wish in the present or in the future. The simple past here is an unreal past. When you use the verb to be the form is “were”.
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If only / I wish + past perfect If only I had woken up early. (I didn't wake up early and I missed my bus.) start learning
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To express a regret. The action is past.
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I wish / if only + would + verb I wish you wouldn't arrive so late all the time (I'm annoyed because you always come late and I want you to arrive on time) start learning
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To complain about a behavior that you disapprove. Expressing impatience, annoyance or dissatisfaction with a present action.
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There are three distinct types of I wish / if only sentences: start learning
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Wish, wanting change for the present or future with the simple past. Regret with the past perfect. Complaints with would + verb.
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start learning
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http://www.myenglishpages.com/site_php_files/grammar-exercise-if-only-I-wish. php
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Decide whether these statements express start learning
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start learning
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If only she had seen the doctor earlier. He could have saved her. start learning
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If only I traveled to New York. start learning
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start learning
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Alice didn't get a good grade. She wishes she (work) harder. start learning
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Alice didn't get a good grade. She wishes she had worked harder
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Tom likes football very much. He wishes he (become) a professional football player. start learning
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Tom likes football very much. He wishes he became a professional football player.
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He was running very fast when he had a heart attack. If only he (not/run) so fast. start learning
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He was running very fast when he had a heart attack. If only he hadn't run so fast.
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She's keen on computers. She wishes she (study) computer science next school year. start learning
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She's keen on computers. She wishes she studied computer science next school year.
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I am sorry I don’t know how to use the computer. If only I (know) how to use it. start learning
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I am sorry I don’t know how to use the computer. If only I knew how to use it.
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I stayed late at work and missed the last bus. I wish I (stay) at work late start learning
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I stayed late at work and missed the last bus. I wish I had not stayed at work late.
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