Which is correct grammar?

Asked by fau 7 months ago, 3 answers.

Which is correct grammar :I wish I was slimmer or I wish I were slimmer?

Answered by editor on Apr 21, 2008, 02:00PM
| 7406 answers.
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When you are using the simple past, you use 'was' for the 1st and 3rd persons singular, and you use 'were' for the other persons:
"I/He/She/It was here yesterday."
"We/You/They were here yestersay."

Now, in conditional sentences or in any other instances in which the subjunctive mood is needed (example, when you say "wish", you can use 'was' for the 1st and 3rd persons singular in informal English:
"If I was you, I'd tell her."
"I wish he was older."

Now, in formal English, and mainly in writing, you use 'were' for all persons.
"I wish you were here."
"I wish he were here."

When it comes to the subjunctive, you have a choice, but remember "appropriateness". If you're applying for a job or writing an academic paper -just to mention two examples- the more formal your style, the better.

So the short answer: use were.

| 1 of 1 thought this was helpful

Answered by mh2m on Apr 21, 2008, 02:08PM
| 687 answers.

thx editor

Answered by iamcool on Apr 22, 2008, 03:49AM
| 692 answers.

Were slimmer. For starters it just sounds better.

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