How to write I wish I were or wish I were
Both “I wish I were” and “I wish I was” are correct, but “I wish I were” is considered more grammatically correct in formal writing.
“I wish I were” is in the subjunctive mood, which is used to express hypothetical or counterfactual situations. It is used to talk about situations that are not real or true at the moment. For example, “I wish I were taller.”
“I wish I was” is in the indicative mood, which is used to express factual situations. It is used to talk about situations that are real or true at the moment. For example, “I wish I was at home right now.”
However, in everyday conversation, both “I wish I were” and “I wish I was” are commonly used interchangeably, and the difference is not always noticeable.
The subjunctive mood is used to express wishes, hopes, doubts, hypothetical situations, or situations that are contrary to fact. It is formed differently from the indicative mood, which is used to express facts or reality. In the subjunctive mood, the verb “to be” is conjugated differently in the present tense:
- I wish I were taller.
- If I were you, I would do things differently.
- She speaks as though she were an expert.
In these sentences, “were” is used instead of “was” to express hypothetical situations that are not currently true.
However, in colloquial speech, many native English speakers use “I wish I was” instead of “I wish I were.” This usage has become more common over time, and it is now considered acceptable in informal settings. So, while “I wish I were” is considered more grammatically correct, “I wish I was” is also widely used in everyday conversation.
How to write I wish I were or wish I were