We use • I wish .... or If only .... • with the past simple to say that we really want a situation to be different.
I wish it were Sunday. If only I had more money.
We use • I wish ....or If only ..... with would + base form• to say that we really want somebody's (or something's) behaviour to be different.
I wish you wouldn't smoke.
I wish this machine would work.
We use • I'd rather• with a base form to express a preference.
'Do you want a cup of tea?' ' I'd rather have a coffee.'
We use • I'd rather • with the past simple to say that we really want somebody's ( or something's) behaviour to be different.
I'd rather you didn't leave your bag there.
I wish, If only, I'd rather
Complete the sentences about imaginary situations.
1 I haven't got a boyfriend.
If only I had a boyfriend!
2 I live in a small flat.
If only ___________ in a bigger flat.
3 I can't find a job.
I wish I ___________ a job.
4 Please don't call me any more.
I'd rather ____________ me any more.
5 Please stop complaining all the time.
I wish ____________ complaining all the time.
6 My boyfriend's moving to another city.
If only _____________ moving away.
7 Please don't smoke in my room.
I'd rather ____________ smoke in my room.
8 I can't stand it when you borrow my clothes.
I wish ____________ my clothes.
9 I'd prefer to have dinner at home tonight.
I'd rather _______________ at home tonight.