Reading and Use fo English - Hypothetical situations

Question 1

Hypothetical situations

Unhappy about a present situation and would like it to be different, even though this may not be possible

Answer 1

Wish/if only + past simple

I wish I was/were taller
If only I knew how to play the guitar

Question 2

Hypothetical situations

We want something to happen or someone to do something

Answer 2

Wish/if were + would

I wish you would go away
If only this wind would stop blowing

Question 3

Hypothetical situations

We want to express irritation at other peoples’ actions

Answer 3

Wish/if were + would

I wish you woudn’t keep tapping your foot

Question 4

Hypothetical situations

Action occurs habitually

Answer 4

Wish/if were + past simple

I wish you didn’t/wouldn’t smoke so much

Question 5

Hypothetical situations

Subject of wish is the same as the subject of the verb

Answer 5

Wish + could

I wish I could remember the name of that actor

Question 6

Hypothetical situations

Wishes for the future

Answer 6

Wish/if only + would or could

Suggests that the action will probably not happen

I wish I could go on holiday with you in summer

Question 7

Hypothetical situations

Wishes and regrets about the past (2)

Answer 7

• Wish/if only + past perfect
• Should have + past participle

I wish I hadn’t left school when I was 16
We should have got the train. THis traffic’s terrible

Question 8

Hypothetical situations

We want someone else to do something in the present or future

Answer 8

Would rather/sooner + past simple

I’d rather/sooner you told Leah the news yourself

Question 9

Hypothetical situations

We want something to happen or be done now

Answer 9

It’s (high/about) time + past simple

It’s high time we bought a new car - this one’s far too unreliable