I Wish This Was Or Were

I Wish This Was or Were: Understanding Subjunctive Mood in English

The seemingly simple phrase "I wish this was..." often sparks confusion. Should it be "was" or "were"? The answer lies in understanding the subjunctive mood, a grammatical structure that expresses wishes, desires, hypothetical situations, and contrary-to-fact statements. This article will delve deep into the nuances of "I wish this was/were," explaining the rules, providing examples, and clarifying common misconceptions. We'll also explore how mastering this grammatical point enhances your writing and communication skills.

Understanding the Subjunctive Mood

The subjunctive mood is a verb form used to express a wish, a suggestion, a demand, or a hypothetical situation. It's distinct from the indicative mood (used for factual statements) and the imperative mood (used for commands). In modern English, the subjunctive is less frequently used than in older forms of the language, but it remains crucial for precise and nuanced communication. Its subtle yet significant presence often distinguishes formal and sophisticated writing from more casual forms.

The key difference between the indicative and subjunctive moods lies in how they treat verb conjugation, particularly in the third-person singular. In the indicative mood, the third-person singular present tense uses "-s" or "-es" (e.g., "he walks," "she sings"). However, in the subjunctive mood, this "-s" or "-es" is omitted.

The Subjunctive in "I Wish" Clauses

The subjunctive mood plays a crucial role in sentences starting with "I wish." These sentences typically express unreal or hypothetical situations – things that are not true in the present, were not true in the past, or are unlikely to be true in the future.

"I Wish This Were..." (The preferred form)

When expressing a wish for something contrary to fact – something you want to be different from the reality – "were" is generally the preferred and more grammatically correct form, regardless of the noun's number (singular or plural).

• Example: "I wish this were possible." (Even if "this" is singular, "were" is used because it's a contrary-to-fact statement.)
• Example: "I wish things were different." (Plural noun, but "were" remains correct due to the subjunctive.)
• Example: "I wish she were here." (Singular noun, but the subjunctive "were" is used to express the unreal wish.)

"I Wish This Was..." (Acceptable in informal contexts)

While "were" is grammatically preferred, "was" is often used in informal speech and writing. This usage reflects the decline of the subjunctive mood in modern English. However, using "was" can sometimes sound less sophisticated or grammatically imprecise.

• Example: "I wish this was easier." (Informal usage; "were" would be more grammatically correct.)

Choosing Between "Was" and "Were": A Detailed Guide

The decision between "was" and "were" hinges on the context and your desired level of formality. Here's a breakdown to help you make the right choice:

• Contrary-to-fact present: If you're expressing a wish about the present that contradicts reality, use "were." This is the most common use of the subjunctive in "I wish" clauses.

• Contrary-to-fact past: If you are expressing a regret about something that happened in the past and wish it were different, use "were." This emphasizes the impossibility of changing the past.

• Hypothetical situations: When discussing hypothetical situations, "were" is often the preferred choice, particularly in formal writing, maintaining a more elevated tone.

• Informal contexts: In informal conversations or casual writing, "was" is acceptable, although "were" remains the more grammatically precise option.

Examples to Illustrate the Difference

Let's examine several examples to solidify your understanding:

Using "Were":

• I wish I were taller. (Contrary-to-fact present: I'm not taller, but I wish I were.)
• I wish it were Friday. (Contrary-to-fact present: It's not Friday, but I wish it were.)
• I wish she were more careful. (Contrary-to-fact present: She isn't more careful, but I wish she were.)
• I wish I were a millionaire. (Contrary-to-fact present: I am not a millionaire, but I wish I were.)
• I wish we were on vacation right now. (Contrary-to-fact present: We are not on vacation, but we wish we were.)
• I wish I were there to help you. (Contrary-to-fact present: I am not there, but I wish I were.)
• I wish he were more understanding. (Contrary-to-fact present: He isn't more understanding, but I wish he were.)
• I wish they were more considerate. (Contrary-to-fact present: They are not more considerate, but I wish they were.)
• I wish it were sunny today. (Contrary-to-fact present: It's not sunny, but I wish it were.)
• I wish things were simpler. (Contrary-to-fact present: Things are not simpler, but I wish they were.)

Using "Was" (informal):

• I wish it was easier. (Informal; "were" is more grammatically correct.)
• I wish this project was less time-consuming. (Informal; "were" is more grammatically correct.)
• I wish he was here to help me. (Informal; "were" is more grammatically correct.)

Beyond "I Wish": Other Subjunctive Constructions

The subjunctive mood extends beyond "I wish" clauses. It appears in various constructions, including:

• That-clauses expressing wishes, demands, suggestions, or requests: "It is important that he be on time." (Subjunctive "be" is preferred over "is.")
• Hypothetical clauses introduced by "if" or "as if": "If I were you, I would reconsider." (Subjunctive "were" is essential here.)
• Formal requests or demands: "I request that the meeting be adjourned." (Subjunctive "be" conveys formality.)

Improving Your Writing with Proper Subjunctive Usage

Mastering the subjunctive mood, particularly in "I wish" clauses, elevates your writing. Using "were" correctly, even in informal writing, demonstrates grammatical awareness and enhances the sophistication of your expression. While "was" is acceptable in informal contexts, favoring "were" in more formal settings demonstrates a strong command of the English language.

Consistent and correct subjunctive usage adds a layer of precision and style to your communication. It allows you to express hypothetical situations and wishes with greater clarity and impact. The subtle difference between "was" and "were" can significantly alter the meaning and tone of your sentence, demonstrating a deeper understanding of English grammar.

Conclusion: Precision in Language Matters

The seemingly insignificant choice between "was" and "were" in "I wish" clauses actually reveals a deeper understanding of English grammar and the subjunctive mood. While "was" is acceptable in informal contexts, using "were" consistently showcases a more polished and precise writing style. Mastering the nuances of the subjunctive enhances your overall communication skills and reinforces your credibility as a writer. So, the next time you find yourself writing "I wish," remember the power of "were" and embrace the subjunctive mood to elevate your writing to new heights.