Explanation
Expresses regret or dissatisfaction; 'if only', 'wish'.
Formation
Verb-ば form + ～のに, い-Adjective-ば form + ～のに, な-Adjective + であれば + ～のに, Noun + であれば + ～のに
Detailed explanation
The ～ば～のに grammar point is used to express regret or dissatisfaction about a situation that didn't happen or to express a contrary view of the actual situation. It can be translated as 'if only' or 'wish' in English. The formation differs depending on whether it is used with a verb, い-adjective, な-adjective, or noun.
Examples
Motto hayaku kureba, densha ni maniatta noni.
If only I had come earlier, I would have made it to the train.
Motto benkyou sureba, shiken ni goukaku shita noni.
I wish I had studied more, I would have passed the exam.
Kanojo ga motto yasashikereba, kare to umaku iku noni.
If only she were kinder, she would get along with him.
Nihongo ga jouzu de areba, kono hon ga yomeru noni.
I wish I were good at Japanese, then I could read this book.
Practice
Grammar content sourced from hanabira.org.