Pipe dream

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Pipe dream" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a hope or plan that is unrealistic or unlikely to happen. Example: "His idea of becoming a famous rock star is just a pipe dream."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Reference

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Pipe dream.

The New York Times

Pipe Dream is his third boat.

The New York Times

Pipe dream, says James Drucker of Global Sports, a sports consultancy.

Forbes

That's no pipe dream.

Independent

That's a pipe dream.

The New York Times

This is no pipe dream.

The Economist

"It's not a pipe dream.

The New York Times

That is a pipe dream.

The New York Times

It was a pipe dream.

The New York Times - Books

Is that a pipe dream?

The New York Times

Is this a pipe dream?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pipe dream" to describe goals or plans that are highly unlikely to succeed, helping to set realistic expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "pipe dream" for difficult but achievable goals; reserve it for truly unrealistic scenarios to maintain accurate communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pipe dream" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or appositive. It describes a plan, idea, or desire that is considered unrealistic or impossible to achieve. Ludwig AI supports this, showing many instances in which "pipe dream" serves to characterize an unattainable objective.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Reference

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pipe dream" is a common noun phrase used to describe an unrealistic or unattainable goal. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalent usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it's best used in neutral to informal settings, avoiding overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Synonymous phrases include "unrealistic aspiration" or "impractical scheme", which can be used for greater precision or formality. Understanding the scope and connotations of "pipe dream" ensures effective and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Pie in the sky

An idiomatic alternative indicating an unrealistic or unattainable goal.

Castles in the air

Another idiomatic alternative that suggests imagining ideal situations that are very unlikely to happen.

Impractical scheme

Highlights the flawed or unworkable nature of the plan.

Unrealistic aspiration

Focuses on the impracticality and lack of feasibility of the ambition.

False hope

Implies a hope that has no chance of being fulfilled.

Far-fetched notion

Emphasizes the improbability and implausibility of the idea.

Delusional hope

Indicates a false belief or illusion regarding the possibility of success.

Wild fantasy

Suggests a strong element of imagination and detachment from reality.

Unfounded optimism

Focuses on the lack of a solid basis for the positive outlook.

Empty promise

Underscores the deception and lack of substance in the proposition.

FAQs

How can I use "pipe dream" in a sentence?

You can use "pipe dream" to describe a plan or idea that is very unlikely to happen. For example, "His ambition to become an astronaut is just a "pipe dream" because of his health issues".

What's a good synonym for "pipe dream"?

Synonyms for "pipe dream" include "unrealistic aspiration", "impractical scheme", or "far-fetched notion", all suggesting an unattainable goal.

Is "pipe dream" formal or informal?

"Pipe dream" is generally considered informal and is best suited for casual conversations or less formal writing. In professional or academic contexts, consider using more formal alternatives such as "unrealistic goal".

When is it appropriate to use the term "pipe dream"?

It is appropriate to use "pipe dream" when you want to express skepticism or doubt about the feasibility of a plan, suggesting it is based more on wishful thinking than practical reality. Be mindful of the potentially negative connotation.