This document discusses different uses of the word "wish" in the past tense. It explains that "wish + past simple" is used to express things one would like to be different in the present that are impossible or unlikely. It also describes how "wish + would/wouldn't" expresses things one wants to happen or stop happening because they are annoying, and only refers to actions, not oneself. Additionally, it notes that "wish + past perfect" indicates regrets about things that happened in the past. Finally, it states that "if only" can be used instead of "I wish" to convey more emphasis or intensity about past regrets or desires.

1. UPPER INTERMEDIATE

2. WISH+ past simple
 Things we would like to be different in the present
(they are impossible or unlikely)
Ex.: I wish (that) I were (more formal)/was rich.
I wish I could speak English fluently.

3. WISH+WOULD/WOULDN’T
 Things we want to happen or to stop happening
because we find them annoying. Used only for actions
and never about yourself:
Ex.: I wish our neighbours would stop making noise.
I wish the students would do the homework every day.

4. WISH+past perfect
 For REGRETS: Things that happened in the past that
we regret now.
Ex.: I wish I had listened to the teacher and had done
the homework every day.

5. IF ONLY
 It can be used instead of I wish (a bit more emphatic
and intense):
Ex.: If only I had lots of money
If only I had listened to the teacher and had done the
homework.