wish + past tense

[Madison Brandon]

Wish as in changing reality, for example
I don't have a dog - I wish I had a dog
Today is Friday - I wish it were Saturday
I speak English - I wish I spoke French
I can't drink milk - I wish I could drink milk

Ok, this is fine, wish + past tense or wish + could + simple form

I wish I changed (my appearance e.g.)
I wish I rode an elephant ....problem!

I wish I could change my appearance.
I wish I could ride and elephant Could is necessary.

Why is this so and what other verbs does this apply to?

[Takezo]

If the verb after wish is an action verb, use 'would' or 'could' instead of the past simple. It refers to the future.

For example:
(Everyone changed out of their uniforms to casual dress except you)
I wish I (had) changed clothes.
-This refers to the past, and your regret that you didn't do something.

(It's hot and you're wearing sweats)
I wish I could change clothes.
-This talks about the future and refers to the action of changing.


The previous examples you gave all described states.
I don't have a dog - I wish I had a dog
Today is Friday - I wish it were Saturday
I speak English - I wish I spoke French
I can't drink milk - I wish I could drink milk

So any verb that is used as an action requires 'would' or 'could.'