Language Research

wish · verb

/wɪʃ/Full view

wish (that)

B1 to want a situation that is different from the one that exists

Dictionary examples:

I wish that I was/were a bit taller.

I wish I didn't have to go to work today.

I wish he would leave.

I wish I had been there.

Learner example:

I wish you were here, then you could see how nice it is. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Chinese)

wish sb luck

B1 to say that you hope someone will be lucky, successful, etc.

Dictionary examples:

I wished him luck on his test.

I'm running in the relay - wish me luck!

Learner example:

I wish you good luck with your family! (Preliminary English Test; B1; Swiss German)

wish to do sth

B2 to want to do something

Dictionary examples:

I wish to make a complaint.

Those wishing to learn more can visit the Resources section of the site.

Learner example:

I am writing to you as I wish to become a member of your golf association. (First Certificate in English; B2; Swedish)

wish · noun C

/wɪʃ/

best wishes

A2 something that you write at the end of a letter

Dictionary example:

With best wishes, Anna

Learner example:

With best wishes, (Key English Test; A2; Russian)

wish (WANT)

B2 what you want to do or what you want to happen

Dictionary examples:

Did he express any wish to see me?

The hospital always tries to respect the wishes of its patients.

It was his greatest wish that one of his grandchildren would become a doctor.

Learner example:

It was always his dream to become a singer and he [did] everything to make his wish come true. (First Certificate in English; B2; German)

wish (SECRET)

C2 something that you say secretly to yourself about what you want to have or happen

Dictionary example:

She closed her eyes and made a wish.

Learner example:

I saw a star falling. I made a wish. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Greek)