dreamlike state

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dreamlike state" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a situation or feeling that is surreal, ethereal, or reminiscent of a dream. Example: "After the meditation session, she felt as if she were in a dreamlike state, floating through her thoughts." Alternative expressions include "surreal state," "ethereal state," and "dreamy condition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We entered a dreamlike state.

The Guardian

The effect is a floaty, dreamlike state and, surprisingly, not one of being waterlogged.

The New York Times

Expect lots of splashing, the suspension of gravity, and the evocation of a dreamlike state.

The New Yorker

The resulting weight of subconscious melancholy truly left me in a pensive, dreamlike state.

The Guardian

Is the dreamlike state of suspension that we associate with film inherent in its photochemical architecture?

The New York Times

On awakening from the induced dreamlike state, the woman would have no memory of her labour pains.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He does not believe in germs or the existence of illness, which they consider a dreamlike state.

The New York Times

I did not resist as I fell into a dreamlike state — I just let go of everything.

The New Yorker

It is a dreamlike state where I can hear people and see people, but I somehow I cannot connect.

Independent

A few trips back and forth bring on a dreamlike state, where time — and quotidian worry — fade to amusing insignificance.

The New York Times - Travel

When we arrived in London, we were in the zombified, dreamlike state that comes from extreme tiredness.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scene or experience, use sensory details to enhance the feeling of a "dreamlike state". Include descriptions of sights, sounds, and textures that contribute to a surreal or ethereal atmosphere.

Common error

Avoid using "dreamlike state" repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Vary your descriptions with synonyms or more specific imagery to maintain reader engagement and prevent the phrase from losing its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dreamlike state" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective modifying a noun. Ludwig AI confirms its common use to characterize experiences or conditions that resemble a dream, marked by surreality, altered perception, or detachment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dreamlike state" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe experiences characterized by surreality, altered perceptions, and detachment from reality. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. Alternative phrases such as "surreal atmosphere" or "altered state of consciousness" can be used to provide variety and nuance. When using the expression, consider sensory details to enhance the description and avoid overuse to maintain impact. Overall, "dreamlike state" is a versatile and effective way to convey a specific type of experience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

surreal atmosphere

Focuses more on the external environment than the internal experience.

daydream state

Suggests a milder form of detachment, often voluntary and pleasant.

unreal condition

Emphasizes the lack of reality or authenticity.

state of illusion

Highlights the deceptive or misleading nature of the experience.

trance-like state

Suggests a deeper level of altered consciousness, often induced.

hypnotic state

Highlights the susceptibility to suggestion and reduced awareness.

altered state of consciousness

A more clinical and general term for any deviation from normal awareness.

ethereal realm

Evokes a sense of lightness, beauty, and otherworldliness.

fantasy world

Implies a complete departure from reality into a constructed or imagined place.

otherworldly experience

Emphasizes the alien or unfamiliar nature of the experience.

FAQs

How can I use "dreamlike state" in a sentence?

You can use "dreamlike state" to describe a situation or feeling that is surreal or resembles a dream. For example, "After the meditation, she entered a "dreamlike state"."

What are some alternatives to "dreamlike state"?

Alternatives include "surreal atmosphere", "unreal condition", or "altered state of consciousness", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "dreamlike state" a formal or informal expression?

"Dreamlike state" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It appears in news articles, literature, and everyday conversations.

What makes an experience feel like a "dreamlike state"?

A "dreamlike state" is often characterized by a sense of unreality, altered perceptions of time and space, vivid imagery, and a detachment from the immediate surroundings.