Mastering "Wish" in English: Choose the Right Form

The word "wish" has a few different uses, all related to expressing desires. Sometimes we need to talk about things that are unlikely, things we strongly wish for, or possibilities for the future. This guide will help you understand how to use "wish" correctly.

"Wish" with the Simple Past

We use this structure when imagining something unlikely or impossible, but that we would like to be true. This is the most common use of "wish," and it can be swapped with "if only":

• I wish I had more money.

• I wish you didn't have to work tomorrow.

You can also combine this structure with "could":

• I wish I could speak German.

• I wish I could play the violin like that.

For things that are more likely, we usually use "hope" instead of "wish":

• I hope you have a wonderful time.

• I hope you pass your exam.

"Wish" with "Would"

This use is similar to the previous one, but not quite the same. We use this structure to express that something, usually the behaviour of others, bothers us and we would like it to change. It can also be used with the weather:

• I wish you would listen to me.

• I wish you would smoke a bit less.

• I wish he wouldn't shout so much.

• I wish it wouldn't rain so often.

"Wish" with the Past Perfect

To express regret or the desire for something to have happened differently, we use wishes in the past. These are very similar to the third conditional:

• I wish I had broken up with him sooner.

• I wish I hadn't moved to the city.

• I wish I had paid more attention.

• I wish you hadn't dropped out of school.

"Wish" with the Infinitive

This use is very formal, so you're unlikely to use it yourself. It's equivalent to "would like," but it's rare to find it outside of formal contexts or older language. You might have come across it in fantasy literature, for example:

• I wish to leave now.

• I wish to speak to Gandalf.

In this use, it can also be combined with a direct object to indicate that we want or don't want someone to do something. Again, very formal:

• She wishes those people to remain silent.

• We do not wish anyone else to be hurt.

Wishing Good Things

Finally, "wish" is often used in set phrases to convey good wishes, usually associated with a celebration or specific event:

• We wish you a merry Christmas!

• I wish you a very happy birthday.

• We wish you the best of luck on your trip.

That's all! Which of these uses did you find the most difficult?

If you want to keep practising, take a look at the practical uses of phrases to express wishes.