We use wish to talk about situations that are unreal, impossible, or different from what we want. The verb after wish always shifts one step back in time, even if the meaning is present or future.
Use the past simple to talk about something that is not true now.
Note: “I wish I were” is the traditional form, but “I wish I was” is very common in everyday English.
Use could when the problem is ability or possibility.
Sometimes could and the past simple have similar meanings:
Use the past perfect to express regret about something that has already happened.
Use would to express impatience, annoyance, or a desire for someone else to change their behaviour.
Important: You cannot use wish + would for your own behaviour.
If only works like “wish” but sounds stronger or more emotional.
You can add that after “wish,” but most speakers leave it out.
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