Wish - B1 Grammar

Wish Grammar – Speaking Practice Activities - Part 2

Complete with you own ideas

I wish I had …..

Rule: Wish - B1 Grammar ShowHide

wish + Past Simple

The present is not the way you want it.

It takes me two hours to get to school. I wish I lived nearer.
I wish I didn't have so many errands to run.

With be use were: I wish I were older. For ability use could: I wish I could drive.

wish + Past Perfect

A regret about the past – it can't be changed now.

I failed my exam. I wish I had studied more.
I wish we hadn't missed the last bus.

wish + would

You want somebody else or something to change, often because it annoys you.

I wish you wouldn't click your pen all the time!
I wish my brothers would stop fighting.
I wish it would snow.

Not about yourself: I wish I could …, not ~~I wish I would~~.

If only means the same as I wish, just stronger: If only I had free time on Tuesdays! If only I hadn't sold my bike!

“Wish” Grammar – Speaking Practice Activities

Speak your wishes aloud! These fun and creative speaking prompts help you practice “I wish...” in different real-life situations. From small regrets to big dreams – say what's on your mind in clear, correct English.

Great for group discussion, conversation clubs, or warm-up tasks. You'll build fluency, vocabulary, and confidence using “wish” + past simple and past perfect.

Perfect for intermediate learners who want to sound natural and expressive in conversation.