Wish clauses

1. I wish/if only

1.1. WISH can be replaced by IF ONLY with the same meaning

1.2. Formation:

1.2.1. wish + past simple

1.2.1.1. Uses:

1.2.1.1.1. refers to a desired situation in the present

1.2.1.1.2. refers to situations that we would like to be different

1.2.2. wish + past perfect

1.2.2.1. Uses:

1.2.2.1.1. refers to the past

1.2.2.1.2. expresses regret about a past situation

1.2.3. wish + would/could + infinitive

1.2.3.1. wish + would only possible with different subjects

1.2.3.2. Uses:

1.2.3.2.1. refers to the present/future

1.2.3.2.2. expresses a wish for a change, especially in relation with someone's will

2. Not real conditional sentences, but similar in structure