Wish, if only and would rather
Wish and if only for regrets, wish + would, would rather + subject + past, and it's (high) time.
Regrets, complaints and preferences: these structures all use a past tense for a present or future meaning. Once you see the pattern, they're easy marks.
Wish and if only
Would rather and it's 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 (3–6 words).
RATHER
I'd rather you didn't mention this to anyone.
Would rather + another person + past simple.
ONLY
If only I had accepted the job offer.
If only + past perfect for a past regret.
TIME
It's high time we went home.
It's (high) time + subject + past simple.
Common mistakes
- ✗ I'd rather you don't smoke here.✓ I'd rather you didn't smoke here.Would rather + another person + past simple.
- ✗ I wish I would have more time.✓ I wish I had more time.Don't use 'would' about yourself.
- ✗ It's time we go.✓ It's time we went.It's time + subject + past simple.
All these structures take a step back in time: present → past simple, past → past perfect. If the first sentence has 'regret' or 'what a pity', think 'wish' or 'if only'.
Quick check
Complete the second sentence so that it means the same as the first. Use the key word and write 3–6 words.
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