Wish clauses and hypothetical expressions allow us to talk about things we want to be different — situations that are contrary to reality. The verb tense shifts back in time relative to the reality being described, which is a key feature of this structure.
Practice
I wish Imore languages. (I can't)
She wishes shethat — it was very rude.
If only itraining! We planned a picnic.
It's high time youlooking for a new job.
I wish Ithat opportunity when I had the chance.
I wish my colleaguechecking his phone in meetings.
He wishes hecloser to the city center.
If only wethe hotel earlier, it wouldn't be full now.
I wish I _____ taller.
She wishes she _____ the job offer last year.