Plural of Wish: Rules, Usage, Examples, and Common Mistakes in English Grammar

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Mastering plural nouns is a crucial part of writing and speaking English accurately. Among these, understanding the plural of the word “wish” is essential—not only for correct grammar, but also for expressing hopes, desires, and messages in everyday conversations, formal writing, and special occasions. Whether you are sending best wishes in a letter, making a list of birthday wishes, or discussing your life’s wishes, knowing how to form and use the plural of “wish” is invaluable.

This comprehensive guide delves into every aspect of the plural form “wishes”: definitions, pluralization rules, examples, common mistakes, and practical exercises. You will also find detailed tables, step-by-step explanations, advanced usage notes, and a robust FAQ section.

This article is designed for English learners, teachers, advanced students, and anyone seeking to perfect their command of English grammar.

For easy navigation and maximum learning benefit, the article follows a clear structure: starting with foundational definitions, then moving through rules and usage, examples, error analysis, exercises, and advanced topics. Each section is packed with examples and tips to help you master the plural of “wish” and avoid common pitfalls.

Table of Contents

3. Definition Section

3.1 What Is a Plural Noun?

A plural noun is a word that refers to more than one person, place, thing, or idea. In English, the most common way to form a plural noun is by adding -s or -es to the singular form. Plural nouns serve to indicate quantity and enable us to talk about multiple items or entities clearly.

For example, the word cat becomes cats in the plural, and box becomes boxes. The function of pluralization is to distinguish between single and multiple referents in sentences.

Table 1: Singular vs. Plural Nouns
Singular Plural Example Sentence
cat cats The cats are sleeping.
dog dogs Two dogs barked loudly.
wish wishes He made three wishes.
box boxes Several boxes arrived today.

3.2 Definition of “Wish” as a Noun

The noun “wish” refers to a hope or desire for something that is not easily attainable or may be impossible. It is a countable noun, meaning it can be pluralized (e.g., “two wishes”). Examples:

  • I have a wish to travel the world.
  • Her wish was to see her family reunited.

Note: Wish can also function as a verb (“I wish you luck”), but in this article, our focus is on the noun form.

  • Noun: He made a wish.
  • Verb: She wishes she could attend.

3.3 The Plural of Wish: “Wishes”

The standard plural form of “wish” is wishes. This is formed by adding -es to the end of the word.

Pronunciation: /ˈwɪʃɪz/ (wish-iz) — two syllables: wish-es.

3.4 Grammatical Classification and Function

“Wish” is a countable noun. In sentences, it can function as:

  • Subject: Wishes can come true.
  • Object: She has many wishes.
  • Complement: His wish is to succeed.

3.5 Usage Contexts for “Wishes”

“Wishes” is widely used in both everyday and formal contexts:

  • Everyday: Birthday wishes, holiday wishes, personal hopes.
  • Formal: “Best wishes” in letters, ceremonial greetings.

It is equally appropriate in spoken conversation and written English.

4. Structural Breakdown

4.1 Regular Noun Pluralization Rules

Most English nouns form their plurals by adding -s. However, nouns ending in certain sounds (like -s, -sh, -ch, -x, -z) require -es for easier pronunciation.

Table 2: Regular Pluralization Patterns
Singular Ending Plural Rule Example
-s, -sh, -ch, -x, -z Add -es wish → wishes, box → boxes
Most other endings Add -s cat → cats, car → cars
Consonant + y Change y to ies baby → babies

4.2 The -sh Ending Rule

Nouns ending in -sh (like “wish”) form their plural by adding -es instead of just -s. This is because adding only -s would make pronunciation awkward.

  • wish → wishes
  • dish → dishes
  • brush → brushes
  • ash → ashes
  • finish → finishes

Phonetic rationale: The -sh sound is a sibilant (hissing sound), so English adds -es to create a distinct syllable for ease of speaking.

4.3 Spelling and Pronunciation of “Wishes”

To form the plural:

  1. Start with “wish”.
  2. Add -es → “wishes”.

Phonetic/IPA: “wish” = /wɪʃ/; “wishes” = /ˈwɪʃɪz/.
Syllables: wish (1 syllable), wishes (2 syllables: wish-es).

Audio note: The plural adds a clear “-iz” sound at the end.

4.4 “Wish” as a Countable Noun

“Wish” can be counted, so it can be singular (a wish) or plural (wishes).

  • He has one wish.
  • She made three wishes.

4.5 Irregularities (or Lack Thereof)

Wish is a regular noun and follows the standard -es pluralization rule for nouns ending in -sh. Unlike “child” (children) or “mouse” (mice), “wish” is not irregular.

Compare:

  • wish → wishes (regular)
  • child → children (irregular)

5. Types or Categories

5.1 Types of Wishes (By Meaning)

“Wishes” can refer to different kinds of hopes or expressions, depending on context.

Table 3: Categories of Wishes and Examples
Type Description Example
Simple wishes Personal hopes/desires I have many wishes for the future.
Birthday wishes Greetings for birthdays She received birthday wishes from friends.
Magical wishes Granted by supernatural means The genie granted him three wishes.
Formal wishes Polite/formal expressions Please accept my best wishes.

5.2 Singular vs. Plural Usage in Contexts

  • Singular: Used for one specific desire or greeting. He has a wish.
  • Plural: Used for multiple desires or greetings. He has many wishes.

Example sentences:

  • I have a wish to travel. (singular)
  • I have several wishes: to travel, to learn, and to teach. (plural)

5.3 Common Collocations and Phrases

“Wishes” frequently appears in set phrases and collocations.

Table 4: Common Collocations with ‘Wishes’
Phrase Meaning/Use Example
Best wishes Warmest greetings Best wishes for your new job!
Warm wishes Friendly greeting Sending you warm wishes this season.
Birthday wishes For birthdays Thank you for the birthday wishes.
Wedding wishes For weddings They sent wedding wishes to the couple.
Farewell wishes When someone leaves We gave her our farewell wishes.

6. Examples Section

6.1 Basic Examples of “Wishes” in Sentences

  1. She made several wishes before blowing out the candles.
  2. He has many wishes for the new year.
  3. The genie granted her three wishes.
  4. Best wishes for your recovery!
  5. Birthday wishes arrived from around the world.
  6. His wishes were simple but heartfelt.
  7. We exchanged wishes at midnight.
  8. Her wishes came true after years of effort.
  9. They sent their wishes by email.
  10. Warm wishes to you and your family.

6.2 Examples by Category

Table 5: Plural ‘Wishes’ in Different Contexts
Context Example
Birthday I received so many birthday wishes this year.
Holiday We sent holiday wishes to our colleagues.
Wedding Wedding wishes filled the guestbook.
Farewell Her farewell wishes were touching.
Formal Best wishes for your continued success.

6.3 Singular vs. Plural Contrasts

  • Singular: I have a wish to visit Japan.
    Plural: I have many wishes for my future travels.
  • Singular: Her wish is to help others.
    Plural: Her wishes are always generous and thoughtful.
  • Singular: The child made a wish at the fountain.
    Plural: The children made wishes at the fountain.
  • Singular: My greatest wish is peace.
    Plural: My greatest wishes involve peace and happiness.
  • Singular: Each wish was carefully considered.
    Plural: Each of their wishes was carefully considered.

6.4 Advanced and Complex Sentences

  1. Despite his many wishes, he understood that not everything was within his control.
  2. The students wrote their wishes on colorful paper and hung them on the wishing tree.
  3. If all her wishes came true, she would travel the world and help those in need.
  4. Among the countless wishes she received, the most touching was from her grandmother.
  5. The committee reviewed the members’ wishes before finalizing the event schedule.
  6. While his wishes were ambitious, his determination made them seem possible.
  7. He expressed his wishes in a heartfelt letter, hoping for understanding and support.
  8. The wishes of the community were considered in the planning process.
  9. Some wishes are best kept private, while others are meant to be shared.
  10. All of the wishes written by the children were collected for the annual festival.

6.5 Idiomatic and Figurative Uses

  • If wishes were horses, beggars would ride. (proverb)
  • She sent her best wishes to the newlyweds.
  • He left with no hard feelings and good wishes for everyone.
  • The card read, “With warm wishes for your future.”
  • They parted ways with fond wishes for each other’s success.

6.6 Table: 20+ Example Sentences Using “Wishes”

Table 6: 20+ Example Sentences Using “Wishes”
# Example Sentence
1 He made three wishes when he found the magic lamp.
2 Birthday wishes poured in from her friends and family.
3 Best wishes for your new adventure!
4 She wrote her wishes on a piece of paper and burned it at midnight.
5 Our sincere wishes are with you during this difficult time.
6 All his wishes seemed to come true that year.
7 They sent their wedding wishes by post.
8 Her wishes were simple: health and happiness.
9 The wishes of the people were reflected in the new law.
10 Each of the children shared their wishes aloud.
11 Warm wishes to you and your loved ones.
12 Holiday wishes decorated the office walls.
13 He read all the wishes written in the guestbook.
14 She listed her wishes for the coming year.
15 New Year’s wishes filled the air at midnight.
16 Despite her many wishes, she remained grounded in reality.
17 All their wishes were granted eventually.
18 The teacher collected wishes from every student.
19 Farewell wishes were exchanged at the party.
20 Wishes for peace and prosperity are common in holiday cards.
21 He has wishes that he keeps secret.
22 The wishes of the founders still guide the company today.

7. Usage Rules

7.1 Forming the Plural of “Wish”

Rule: Add -es to “wish” to form “wishes”.

  1. Write the singular: wish
  2. Add -es: wish + es = wishes
  3. Use “wishes” for two or more wishes

Examples:

  • One wish, two wishes
  • She has several wishes.

7.2 Subject-Verb Agreement with “Wishes”

When “wishes” is the subject, use a plural verb:

  • Correct: Wishes are important.
  • Incorrect: Wishes is important.
  • Correct: The wishes were granted.

7.3 Possessive Forms

To show possession with “wishes”:

  • Singular possessive: wish’s (The wish’s meaning was clear.)
  • Plural possessive: wishes’ (The wishes’ fulfillment brought happiness.)

7.4 Countable vs. Uncountable Use

“Wishes” is always countable. You can have one wish, two wishes, etc. It cannot be used as an uncountable noun, unlike “advice” or “information.”

Incorrect: Much wishes (should be many wishes)

7.5 Use in Lists and Series

When listing multiple wishes, separate them with commas, and use “and” or “or” before the last item.

  • Her wishes were health, happiness, and peace.
  • He wrote his wishes: to travel, to learn, to teach.

7.6 Exceptions and Special Cases

There are no irregular plural forms for “wish.” Also, remember that “wish” as a verb does not have a plural form; only the noun does.

  • Noun: wishes (plural)
  • Verb: wishes (third-person singular), wish (base form)

8. Common Mistakes

8.1 Incorrect Pluralization

Table 7: Common Errors and Corrections
Incorrect Form Correct Form Example
wishs wishes She has many wishes.
wishies wishes He wrote his wishes on paper.
wish’es wishes We sent our best wishes.

8.2 Confusing “Wish” (Verb) and “Wishes” (Noun)

  • Verb: She wishes you a happy birthday. (action)
  • Noun: She sent birthday wishes. (thing)

Common mistake: using the verb form when a noun is needed, or vice versa.

8.3 Subject-Verb Disagreement

  • Incorrect: Wishes is important.
  • Correct: Wishes are important.

8.4 Singular/Plural Agreement with Modifiers

  • Incorrect: Much wishes
  • Correct: Many wishes
  • Incorrect: A wishes
  • Correct: A wish

8.5 Incorrect Possessive Forms

  • Incorrect: wishes’s (should be wishes’)
  • Correct: The wishes’ meaning was clear.

8.6 Overgeneralizing Pluralization Rules

Don’t assume all -sh ending words are irregular. Most are regular and take -es in the plural (e.g., dish → dishes, wish → wishes).

9. Practice Exercises

9.1 Fill-in-the-Blank Exercises

  1. She blew out the candles and made three ________.
  2. I have a special ________ for you.
  3. He sent his best ________ to the bride and groom.
  4. These ________ are important to me.
  5. Did you make a ________ at the fountain?
  6. New Year’s ________ are often about self-improvement.
  7. My ________ is to travel the world.
  8. All her ________ came true.
  9. He listed his ________ in his diary.
  10. She made a ________ before the exam.

Answer Key:

  1. wishes
  2. wish
  3. wishes
  4. wishes
  5. wish
  6. wishes
  7. wish
  8. wishes
  9. wishes
  10. wish

9.2 Error Correction Exercises

  1. She has many wishs on her list.
  2. My best wishs are for your happiness.
  3. The wishies of the children were heard.
  4. Wishes is important to everyone.
  5. He wrote down his wish’s in a notebook.
  6. All of her wishes was granted.
  7. They sent their wedding wish’s by mail.
  8. Much wishes were expressed at the meeting.
  9. He has a wishes to visit Europe.
  10. Her wishies have always been simple.

Answer Key:

  1. wishes
  2. wishes
  3. wishes
  4. Wishes are important to everyone.
  5. wishes
  6. All of her wishes were granted.
  7. wishes
  8. Many wishes were expressed at the meeting.
  9. a wish
  10. wishes

9.3 Identification Exercises

For each sentence, identify whether “wish” is used as a singular noun, plural noun, or verb.

  1. She wishes she could join us. (____)
  2. He has two wishes. (____)
  3. His wish is to succeed. (____)
  4. Wishes often come true. (____)
  5. I wish you happiness. (____)

Answer Key:

  1. Verb
  2. Plural noun
  3. Singular noun
  4. Plural noun
  5. Verb

9.4 Sentence Construction

Write five sentences using “wishes” in different contexts:

  • Example 1: The teacher read students’ wishes aloud.
  • Example 2: Birthday wishes made him smile.
  • Example 3: Her wishes were simple but sincere.
  • Example 4: The genie granted three wishes.
  • Example 5: All of their wishes were written on cards.

9.5 Table: Practice Exercises and Answers

Table 8: Practice Exercises and Answers
Exercise Type Example Question Correct Answer
Fill-in-the-Blank She made three ________. wishes
Error Correction She has many wishs. wishes
Identification He has two wishes. Plural noun
Sentence Construction Write a sentence with “wishes”. Birthday wishes made him smile.

10. Advanced Topics

10.1 Wishes in Reported Speech and Subjunctive Mood

“Wish” as a verb is used in wish clauses, often expressing regret or hypothetical situations:

  • She wishes she could attend. (verb – expressing desire)
  • She has several wishes. (noun – things she hopes for)

Note: Only the noun form has a plural (“wishes”).

10.2 Pluralization in Related Expressions

“Wishes” often appears with other nouns in expressions:

  • “Hopes and wishes”: Her hopes and wishes were shared with her friends.
  • “Wishes and dreams”: All his wishes and dreams came true.

These collocations emphasize the plural nature of “wishes” in expressing multiple desires.

10.3 Cultural and Literary Use

“Wishes” is a theme in many folk tales, such as the granting of three wishes by a genie. Famous literary examples include the story of “Aladdin” and countless fairy tales.

It’s also found in proverbs (e.g., “If wishes were horses, beggars would ride.”).

10.4 Etymology and Historical Usage

The word wish comes from Old English wȳscan, meaning “to wish or desire.” Its noun form has been used since the 12th century, and its plural “wishes” has always followed regular English pluralization patterns.

10.5 Comparative Analysis

Compare with other -sh ending nouns:

  • wish → wishes
  • dish → dishes
  • fish → fishes (when talking about species; otherwise, “fish” as plural)

“Wish” does not have a unique or irregular plural form.

11. FAQ Section

  1. What is the plural of “wish” in English?
    The plural is wishes.
  2. Why do we add -es to “wish” to form the plural?
    Because “wish” ends with -sh, which requires -es for easier pronunciation.
  3. Can “wish” ever be uncountable?
    No, “wish” is always countable.
  4. How do you use “wishes” in a sentence?
    Example: She received birthday wishes from friends.
  5. What are some common phrases with “wishes”?
    Best wishes, warm wishes, birthday wishes, wedding wishes.
  6. Is “wishes” ever used as a verb?
    No, “wishes” as a verb is the third-person singular of “wish,” but not a plural verb.
  7. What are typical mistakes with the plural of “wish”?
    Incorrect forms: “wishs,” “wishies,” subject-verb disagreement, confusing verb/noun forms.
  8. How do you form the possessive of “wishes”?
    For singular: wish’s; for plural: wishes’.
  9. Are there any irregular plurals similar to “wish”?
    No, “wish” is regular. However, “child” (children) and “mouse” (mice) are irregular.
  10. When do you use “wish” vs. “wishes”?
    Use “wish” for one; “wishes” for two or more.
  11. What is the difference between “wish” as a noun and as a verb?
    Noun: a desire or hope; verb: to desire something.
  12. How is “wishes” pronounced?
    /ˈwɪʃɪz/ (“wish-iz”), two syllables.

12. Conclusion

Understanding the plural form of “wish”—wishes—is vital for clear, accurate English. By mastering the rules, recognizing common mistakes, and practicing with diverse examples, you can use “wishes” confidently in any context, from everyday conversation to formal writing.

Remember: “wish” is a countable noun with a regular plural. Always use “wishes” when referring to more than one hope or desire.

Pay close attention to subject-verb agreement, possessive forms, and common collocations. Use the tables, examples, and exercises in this article as reference and practice tools to reinforce your learning.

Accurate pluralization is a building block of effective communication. Keep practicing, notice patterns, and soon, correct usage of “wishes” will become second nature!

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