5 English Idioms and Expressions With The Word Dream

Idioms, expressions, and phrasal verbs are frequently used in everyday English. However, for non-native English speakers, they can be hard to understand because their meanings are not always obvious. One way to learn idioms is by putting them into groups with similar words or ideas. Here, I have compiled a list of idioms and expressions that have to do with dreams and nightmares.

Take a look at these 5 dream related idioms and expressions and then try the video lesson. There is a quiz at the end, so you can check your understanding of each one. If you want access to my English courses and exclusive PDFs, sign up to be a Premium Studio Member.

Pipe Dream

A pipe dream is an unattainable hope, idea, or plan. It is a dream that is either impossible or not practical to achieve. Pipe dream is used as a noun.

Examples:

Eliminating world hunger remains a pipe dream.

Is world peace just a pipe dream or can it be a reality?

Beyond One's Wildest Dreams

Beyond one's wildest dreams is used to talk about something that is much better than one could expect. Beyond one's wildest dreams is a phrase of the word dream. Some synonyms include unimaginable and unbelievable.

Examples:

The business has grown beyond my wildest dreams!

Her vacation to Paris was beyond her wildest dreams.

Dream On

Dream on is an ironic statement used to say that something is unlikely. Dream on is a phrasal verb of dream. Some synonyms include unlikely and doubtful.

Examples:

You think you're gonna win, huh? Dream on!

I heard that you're going to ask your teacher to give you a good grade. Dream on, kid. You never show up to class!

Dream Job

Dream job refers to a job that you have always wanted. It usually combines one’s passion and the ability to make money.

Examples:

My dream job would allow me to travel around the world.

My dream job is to work as a professional hockey player.

Nightmare Fuel

Nightmare fuel is used to describe something that is so disturbing that it could cause nightmares. Nightmare fuel is used in informal settings.

Examples:

That roller coaster ride was pure nightmare fuel.

Horror movies are fun to watch but you can't deny that some of them are just nightmare fuel.

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Now that you know these 5 dream related idioms and phrasal verbs, take the quiz and see how well you know how to use each one!