The document discusses three types of "if only" sentences used to express wishes, regrets, and complaints. The three types are: 1) Using the simple past to express a present or future wish with sentences like "If only I had more money"; 2) Using the past perfect to express regret over past actions like "If only I had woken up early"; and 3) Using "would" to complain about present behaviors as in "If only you wouldn't lie all the time."

1. If only…
Expressing wishes

2. There are three distinct types of if
only sentences:
•Wanting change for the present or
future with the simple past.
•Regret with the past perfect.
•Complaints with would + verb.

3. Form:
If only I + simple past Example:
If only I had more money. (I don’t have
more money and I would like to)
Use:
To express a wish in the present or in the
future. The simple past here is an unreal
past. When you use the verb to be the
form is “were”:
I wish I were a millionaire!
Expressing a wish:

4. Form:
If only I + past perfect
Example:
If only I had woken up early. (I didn't
wake up early and I missed my train.)
Use:
To express a regret.
The action is past.
Expressing regret:

5. Form:
If only + would + verb
Example:
I wish you wouldn't lie all the time (I'm
annoyed because you always lie and I want
you to tell the truth).
Use:
To complain about a behavior that you
disapprove of.
To express impatience, annoyance or
dissatisfaction with a present action.
Complaining: