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If only I went to the barbecue instead of staying at home. vs If only I had gone to the barbecue instead of staying at home.

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. The first phrase 'if only I went to the barbecue instead of staying at home' is used to express a hypothetical situation in the present or future. The second phrase 'if only I had gone to the barbecue instead of staying at home' is used to express a hypothetical situation in the past.

Last updated: March 27, 2024 • 25474 views

If only I went to the barbecue instead of staying at home.

This phrase is correct and commonly used to express a hypothetical situation in the present or future.

This phrase is used to express a wish or regret about a decision that could have been made differently in the present or future.
  • Apr 10, 2013 ... If only I went to the barbecue instead of staying at home. 3. When Sam was a small child, he would spend hours every day playing with stones ...

Alternatives:

  • if only I go to the barbecue instead of staying at home.

If only I had gone to the barbecue instead of staying at home.

This phrase is correct and commonly used to express a hypothetical situation in the past.

This phrase is used to express a wish or regret about a decision that could have been made differently in the past.

Alternatives:

  • if only I had gone to the barbecue instead of staying at home.

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