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If only I were rich vs If only I was rich

Both phrases are correct, but are used in different contexts. 'If only I were rich' is the more formal, grammatically correct version, using the subjunctive mood. 'If only I was rich' is a more informal, commonly used version, though it's considered less grammatically correct.
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Explained by Miss E.
Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: August 16, 2024

If only I were rich

This phrase is correct and commonly used in formal contexts. It uses the subjunctive mood to express a hypothetical situation.

This phrase is used to express a wish or desire for something that is not true or likely to happen. It is often used in more formal or literary contexts.

Examples:

  • If only I were rich, I would travel the world.
  • If only I were rich, I could buy that house.
  • If only I were rich, I would help those in need.
  • If only I were rich, life would be easier.
  • If only I were rich, I could pursue my dreams.
  • If only I were at home.
  • If only I were more muscular... like a matador.
  • If only I were a cartoon mouse.
  • If only I were young and strong.
  • If only I were a sugarcane in the water.
  • If only I were a bit younger...
  • If only I were paying somebody to help me with this kind of thing.
  • If only I were black, I'd feel so much better.
  • I'd probably say something about it if only I were actually his parent.
  • If only I were 21 again so I could not date you.
  • If only I were chasing tail, my friend -
  • If only I were paying somebody to help me with this kind of thing.
  • If only I were in my own bed in the old house.
  • If only I were that strong!
  • If I were rich, I would go abroad.
  • If only I were the catching type.
  • If I were rich, I could hook that up 'cause chicks dig dudes with money.
  • If I were rich, I'd never let you worry about money.
  • If only I'd brought my mongoose costume.
  • If only I could vice versa.

Alternatives:

  • If only I was rich
  • I wish I were rich
  • I wish I was rich
  • If I were rich
  • I would be rich

If only I was rich

This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts, although it is considered less grammatically correct. It is used to express a wish or desire for something that is not true or likely to happen.

This phrase is used informally to express a wish or desire for something that is not true or likely to happen. It is more commonly used in everyday speech.

Examples:

  • If only I was rich, I could buy a new car.
  • If only I was rich, I would quit my job.
  • If only I was rich, I could afford a vacation.
  • If only I was rich, life would be easier.
  • If only I was rich, I could help my family.
  • If only I was as open as you.
  • If only I knew what I was paying for.
  • I was just thinking that none of this would be necessary if only I'd listened to Father.
  • I could be where Gill is now if only I was so marvellous.
  • If only I was the boss of this place when you were remodeling.
  • Right? I'd murder him good, if only I was still alive.
  • If only I was more hard-hearted, dad
  • If only I was more like Camille...
  • If we must, we must, if only I wasn't haunted by those women whose jobs will be snatched from them when the boys come home.
  • I was rich and spoiled even then, the little prince.
  • I was rich, and then I lost everything.
  • I only did it because I thought I was rich.
  • If only I'd brought my mongoose costume.
  • If only I could vice versa.
  • If only I'd known I was having fun, I wouldn't have canceled the bouncy House.
  • If only I had known what I was getting into, that day in Arizona.
  • If only I was more than that, Maybe they'd still be alive, you know?
  • I swore that when I was rich enough, I would return and make your life a misery.
  • A list Millie made for me years ago when I was rich of all the things that I always said I wanted to do.
  • - If I was rich, I'd be happy.

Alternatives:

  • If only I were rich
  • I wish I were rich
  • I wish I was rich
  • If I were rich
  • I would be rich

Related Comparisons

If he were a rich vs If he was a rich If I were a rich vs If I was a rich I have been awarded vs I have obtained my degree I have been awarded vs from where I have obtained my degree I have been awarded vs the lace from where I have • Computer networks administration vs I have been awarded

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