A2noun1K

Dream

UK /["/driːm/"]/US /["/driːm/"]/

Definition

a series of images, events and feelings that happen in your mind while you are asleep

In simple words: A series of thoughts, images, or emotions occurring during sleep.

Examples

  • I had a wonderful dream last night about flying.
  • Her dream of becoming an artist came true when her painting was exhibited.
  • I often daydream during class when I'm bored.
  • He wants to pursue his dream of starting a bakery.
  • In some cultures, people believe that dreams can predict the future.

Usage notes

Typically used to describe experiences during sleep. Can also refer to aspirations or goals, but using it in a metaphorical sense might be less common in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'dream catcher' — something that catches your dreams while you sleep.

Collocations

  • awful
  • bad
  • disturbing
  • dream
  • have
  • awake from
  • come true
  • haunt somebody
  • plague somebody
  • interpretation
  • in a/​the dream
  • dream about
  • as (if) in a dream
  • sweet dreams
  • big
  • great
  • lifelong
  • cherish
  • have
  • achieve
  • come true
  • turn into a nightmare
  • turn sour
  • holiday
  • home
  • house
  • dream of
  • the American dream
  • the… of somebody’s dreams
  • beyond somebody’s wildest dreams

Synonyms

  • vision
  • fantasy
  • illusion
  • aspiration
  • hope

Antonyms

  • nightmare
  • reality

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'nightmare' which refers to bad dreams.
  • Using 'dream' as a verb incorrectly in past simple.
  • Overusing the term for aspirations; can sound vague.