The verb to wish · Conjugation
Past Simple of wish
The answer: wished
A2
A finished action at a definite time in the past.
Quick answer
The Past Simple of the verb to wish is wished.
Example: I wished her a happy birthday.
Full conjugation in the Past Simple
| Pronoun | Form |
|---|---|
| I | wished |
| You | wished |
| He / She / It | wished |
| We | wished |
| You (pl.) | wished |
| They | wished |
Common mistakes to avoid
1. I wish I pass the test ❌
Wish is often for a regret, or for something that can't happen. For something possible, use hope: I hope I pass the test.
2. I wish I were (subjunctive)
After wish, for something unreal, use were (the subjunctive), even with I: I wish I were rich. I was is accepted in speech, but were is the better form, especially in writing.
Practice quiz
Going further
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Frequently asked questions
What is the past tense of wish?+
The Past Simple of wish is wished (regular verb).
Is it wish or hope?+
Wish = something unreal: I wish I could fly. Hope = something possible: I hope I pass the exam. This difference is essential.
What comes after I wish?+
For an unreal present, use a past form after wish: I wish I were rich. I wish I had a car. This pattern shows a regret or a wish that is not real.
What does wish mean as a noun?+
A wish is something you want very much. Make a wish! (when you blow out your birthday candles).
What does best wishes mean?+
Best wishes is a friendly way to end a letter or an email, before your name.
Related pages: wish Past Simple
Pages on a similar topic or with a similar use, so you can keep exploring.
Updated on 12 November 2026 by the Big Challenge teaching team. Every year, more than 500,000 students across Europe take part in our English contest, created in 1999. Our teaching approach →
The Big Challenge · Updated on 12 November 2026 · Source: www.thebigchallenge.com/bl/academy/learn-english/verbs/wish/past-simple
© The Big Challenge. Copying allowed for classroom use. Every year, more than 500,000 students across Europe take part in our English contest, created in 1999.
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More forms of the verb to wish are coming soon.