Expressing wishes about present and regrets about past
Q1. I wish I ___ more time to finish this project
WISH plus past simple for present desires. Time is scarce. Deadlines loom. Stress accumulates.
Q2. If only she ___ so rude to him yesterday
IF ONLY plus past perfect for regrets. Rudeness occurred. Apologies are needed. Relationships are fragile.
Q3. They wish they ___ not sold their house
WISH plus past perfect for past regrets. Houses were sold. Markets changed. Nostalgia persists.
Q4. I wish it ___ not raining right now
WISH plus WERE for present wishes. Rain falls. Plans are thwarted. Britain delivers.
Q5. If only we ___ where we left the keys
IF ONLY expresses frustration. Keys are lost. Searches commence. Pockets are emptied.