Don’t you just hate missing out on something that a friend or family member is doing while you have to do something else?
It’s times like these when you wish you were there, where they are. While this is the most popular way to say this phrase, the same meaning can be stated differently, here’s how.
1. If only I could transport myself there!
A popular concept of Science Fiction books and television is the ability to move(transport) a person from one location to another in an instant of time.
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2. I am so jealous of you!
Saying we are jealous of the other person is the same as saying that we would like to be where they are and doing what they are doing.
3. It’s so unfair that I have to work while you are on vacation.
A statement of pretended injustice that someone else is enjoying themselves while you have to care for a work responsibility.
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4. If only I could – get in a car / catch a taxi / get the bus / jump on a plane – I would.
This is a statement of longing, or desire to take action if the circumstances permitted, to immediately travel to where the other person currently is.
5. I am imaging myself there right now.
When we have a strong desire to be in another place, we imagine ourselves there.
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6. I wish we could swap places.
This is a sarcastic, joking way of telling your friend or family member that you wish they were caring for what you have to do, while you enjoy what they are currently doing.
7. Have a drink for me too.
A figurative request, asking your friend or family member to pretend you are there and order a drink for you.
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This phrase can be adapted to food or another thing depending on where and what the person is doing.
Since some of these phrases are very informal, choosing which one to use depends on the circumstances and our relationship to the person with whom we are speaking. Is it a close friend, family member or someone we barely know?
When in doubt about which one is OK to use, stay with the classic phrase, I wish I was there!
