Read the Learn this! box and complete it. Underline one example of 'I wish...' and one example of 'If only...' in the dialogue

LEARN THIS! 'I wish...', 'if only...'

a. We use / wish ... and If only ... with the past simple to say that we want a situation to be different from how it really is.

I wish I had a brother. (But I haven't got one.)

If only you lived nearer. (But you live far away.)

Example in the dialogue:

• "I wish I lived here." (Alfie wishes to live in the amazing place but he doesn't.)
• "If only I were a member of the Howard family!" (Macy wishes to be a member of the Howard family but she isn't.)

b. We use / wish ... and If only... with would(n’t) + infinitive without to to say that we want somebody to behave differently.

I wish you wouldn't borrow my clothes! It’s annoying!

If only she would spend more time on her homework!

Example in the dialogue:

• "I wish you wouldn't borrow my clothes! It’s annoying!" (Alfie wishes his friend wouldn't borrow his clothes.)
• "If only she would spend more time on her homework!" (Alfie wishes the girl would spend more time on her homework.)