I wish / If only
Both are used to express our regret or dissatisfaction with a present or past situation. They can also be used to express a desire for change in the future.
I wish + Subject + past simple
REMEMBER: regret about the present
It’s a pity I feel sick. I wish I didn’t feel sick.
I wish + Subject + past perfect
REMEMBER: regret about the past
It’s a pity we left the party early. I wish we hadn’t left the party so early.
I didn’t take your advice. If only I had taken your advice.
I *wish + Subject* + would + infinitive
REMEMBER: complain
*The subjects must be different
You make so much noise! I wish you wouldn’t make so much noise.
You annoy me because you won’t listen to what I say.
I wish you would listen to what I say.
a If only I done my work better.
b I wish they make less noise next door.
c I wish I a better person.
d If only I had more careful with my money.
e If only you would on time for once!
f I wish I understand how computers work.
Rephrase these sentences
1. I don't know many people.
I wish
2. I haven't any cigarettes.
I wish
3. I don't know anything about cars.
I wish
4. It's a pity you weren't here to see the show.
I wish
5. It's a pity we have lost contact with them.
If only
6. I didn't take your advice.
If only
7. Why don't you look where you are going?
I wish
8. Why don't you pay attention to what I am saying?
If only
9. I can't stand people eating popcorn in the cinema.
I wish