Wish and if only
Wish + past simple, past perfect, could and would – and would rather.
We use 'wish' and 'if only' when we want something to be different. The secret is simple: go one step back in time!
Wish: one step back in time
If only
'If only' means the same as 'I wish', but it is stronger. The grammar is exactly the same.
Would rather
'Would rather' shows a preference. With another person, it also goes one step back in time.
How it comes up in Part 4
In Part 4 you complete the second sentence with the key word, so that it means the same as the first one (2–5 words).
WISH
I wish I had gone to the concert.
A past regret: wish + past perfect. The negative becomes positive: not going → had gone.
ONLY
If only I could speak Italian.
'If only' + could for an ability you don't have.
WISH
I wish you would stop interrupting me.
Wish + would for someone's annoying behaviour.
Common mistakes
- ✗ I wish I have more free time.✓ I wish I had more free time.Go one step back: present → past simple.
- ✗ I wish I didn't eat so much last night.✓ I wish I hadn't eaten so much last night.A past regret needs the past perfect.
- ✗ I wish I would be taller.✓ I wish I were taller.Use 'would' only for other people's behaviour, not for yourself.
Look at the time in the first sentence. Present → past simple. Past → past perfect. And change positive to negative (or negative to positive): 'I didn't go' becomes 'I wish I had gone'.
Quick check
Complete the second sentence so that it means the same as the first. Use the key word and write 2–5 words.
🇪🇸 Guía en español: Gramática del B2 First: qué entra en el examen y cómo estudiarla →