Hypothetical constructions

IF ONLY
prezentare

+ Past Simple pentru dorinte referitoare la

prezent sau viitor.

Situatie

: I would like to be taller.

If only I were taller I could become a fashion model.

Situatie

: He will come tomorrow.

If only he came earlier.

+ Past Continuous pentru dorinte cu privire la actiuni referitoare la prezent sau viitor.

Situatie

: We are going to Mamaia for the holiday.

If only we were going to Monte Carlo.

Situatie

: He is talking on the phone now.

If only he were listening to me.

+ Past Perfect pentru a exprima regret pentru

actiuni care nu s-au intamplat in trecut.

Situatie

: I didnt know about his problem.

If only I had known about his problem. (maybe I could have changed something.)

Situatie

: She didnt keep her mouth shut and told him the

secret.

If only she had kept her mouth shut.

+ would + verb pentru a exprima o actiune

viitoare fara prea mari sanse de realizare.

Situatie

: Im sure Ill not receive a car for my birthday.

If only I would receive a car for my birthday.

Situatie

: He might learn more for his next exam, but I

doubt. If only he would learn more for his next exam.