I Wish I Were Or I Wish I Was

I Wish I Were vs. I Wish I Was: Understanding the Subtle Difference

The seemingly interchangeable phrases "I wish I were" and "I wish I was" often leave writers and speakers pondering their correct usage. While both express a desire for a different reality, a subtle yet important grammatical distinction separates them. This article delves into the nuances of each phrase, clarifying when to use each and enhancing your understanding of subjunctive mood.

Choosing between "were" and "was" hinges on the grammatical mood employed: the subjunctive. The subjunctive mood expresses wishes, hypothetical situations, and suggestions that are contrary to fact. "I wish I were" exemplifies the subjunctive, while "I wish I was" reflects the indicative mood, stating a fact or belief.

Understanding the Subjunctive Mood

The subjunctive mood, while less prevalent in modern English, remains crucial for expressing certain nuances. It's characterized by a specific verb conjugation, often deviating from the standard indicative form. In the case of "to be," the subjunctive uses "were" for all persons, singular and plural, present tense. This contrasts with the indicative mood, which uses "was" for first and third-person singular ("I was," "he was," "she was") and "were" for the rest ("you were," "we were," "they were").

Therefore, "I wish I were" correctly utilizes the subjunctive mood to express a wish or hypothetical situation that is contrary to the current reality. This construction emphasizes the unreal nature of the desire.

When to Use "I Wish I Were"

Use "I wish I were" when expressing a wish or hypothetical situation that is not true. Examples include:

• Unfulfilled desires: "I wish I were taller." (You are not taller.)
• Hypothetical scenarios: "I wish I were a bird, so I could fly." (You are not a bird.)
• Regretful situations: "I wish I were more organized." (You are not more organized.)
• Counterfactual statements: "I wish I were there with you." (You are not there.)

The subjunctive adds a layer of formality and emphasizes the distance between the current reality and the desired state. This makes it a more sophisticated choice in many contexts.

When to Use "I Wish I Was"

While grammatically less precise, "I wish I was" is commonly used in informal settings. It doesn't inherently convey the unreal nature of the wish as strongly as the subjunctive. Many native English speakers use "I wish I was" without much concern for grammatical correctness, particularly in spoken English. However, in formal writing or professional contexts, "I wish I were" remains the preferred choice.

Context and Style Considerations

The choice between "I wish I were" and "I wish I was" often depends on the context and desired tone. In informal conversations, "I wish I was" is perfectly acceptable and frequently heard. However, in formal writing such as academic papers, business communications, or literary works, adhering to the subjunctive mood with "I wish I were" is crucial for maintaining grammatical accuracy and a more polished style.

Beyond "To Be"

The subjunctive mood extends beyond the verb "to be." For other verbs, the subjunctive often manifests as the base form of the verb (e.g., "I wish she were kinder," "I suggest he go home").

In conclusion, while "I wish I was" is commonly used and understood, employing "I wish I were" demonstrates a nuanced understanding of English grammar and lends a more formal and precise tone to your writing. The best choice ultimately depends on the context and your desired level of formality. Understanding the subjunctive mood elevates your writing and speaking skills, allowing for more sophisticated expression.