"If only he was" vs "If only he were"

Question

"If only he was" vs "If only he were"

Both "if only he was" and "if only he were" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "If only he were" is the more formal and grammatically correct form, using the subjunctive mood. On the other hand, "if only he was" is more commonly used in informal speech and writing.

Last Updated: March 26, 2024

This phrase is used in informal contexts to express a wish or regret about a past situation.

Examples:

If only he was more understanding.
If only he was here to help us.
If only he was a little more patient.
If only he was able to come to the party.
If only he was still alive.

Alternatives:

if only he were
if only he had been
if only he could be
if only he would be
if only he were to be

This phrase is used in formal contexts to express a wish or regret about a present or future situation.

Examples:

If only he were more understanding.
If only he were here to help us.
If only he were a little more patient.
If only he were able to come to the party.
If only he were still alive.

Alternatives:

if only he was
if only he had been
if only he could be
if only he would be
if only he were to be

Answer 1

If only he was

This phrase is commonly used in informal speech and writing.

Answer 2

If only he were

This phrase is the more formal and grammatically correct form, using the subjunctive mood.

"If only he was" vs "If only he were"

If only he was

If only he were

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