lifetime dream

USAGE SUMMARY

"lifetime dream" is correct and usable in written English.
Commonly, it is used to refer to a dream or desire that someone has had for their entire life. For example, "John always wanted to be an astronaut and it was his lifetime dream to explore the stars."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

His lifetime dream is rubble.

The New York Times

It's a lifetime dream.

The New York Times - Sports

He called starting a major league game "my lifetime dream".

The New York Times - Sports

"Therefore, I'll have the opportunity to fulfill this lifetime dream".

The New York Times - Sports

"That was his lifetime dream — to go to the Yankees".

The New York Times - Sports

To be an N.B.A. coach is a lifetime dream.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

It has been an extraordinary year fulfilling my lifetime dreams of becoming Olympic champion - not just once but twice".

The Guardian - Sport

"It's been one of my lifetime dreams to become world champion.

BBC

\r\nAfter the birth of her son, Gideon-the fulfillment of a lifetime dream-and moves to Seattle and then Oakland, Debrah returned to Los Angeles in 1978, where she began her 15-year career in the real estate industry.

Huffington Post

After the birth of her son, Gideon-the fulfillment of a lifetime dream-and moves to Seattle and then Oakland, Debrah returned to Los Angeles in 1978, where she began her 15-year career in the real estate industry.

Huffington Post

\r\n \r\nAfter the birth of her son, Gideon-the fulfillment of a lifetime dream-and moves to Seattle and then Oakland, Debrah returned to Los Angeles in 1978, where she began her 15-year career in the real estate industry.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lifetime dream" to describe a goal or ambition that someone has held for a significant portion of their life and is deeply meaningful to them.

Common error

Avoid using "lifetime dream" for short-term goals or fleeting interests. It should represent a long-standing and deeply cherished aspiration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lifetime dream" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is both correct and commonly used in English, reflecting its established grammatical role.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lifetime dream" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes a deeply cherished and long-held aspiration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in English. The phrase appears frequently in news and media, as well as in formal and business contexts. Related phrases include "lifelong ambition" and "dream come true", each with slightly different connotations. When using "lifetime dream", ensure that it accurately reflects a goal or ambition that has been significant for a considerable period, avoiding its use for fleeting or short-term interests.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dream come true

Emphasizes the realization of a dream, the fulfillment of a long-awaited wish.

lifelong ambition

Focuses more on ambition, suggesting a strong desire and drive towards achieving something over a long period.

life's ambition

Similar to 'lifelong ambition', but emphasizes the scope of the dream encompassing a significant part of one's life.

ultimate goal

Emphasizes the finality and importance of the goal, suggesting it's the most significant one.

crowning achievement

Highlights the sense of accomplishment and the peak of one's efforts.

cherished aspiration

Indicates a deep emotional attachment and value placed on the desire.

long-held desire

Focuses on the duration for which the desire has been present.

heart's desire

Highlights the deep emotional connection and personal significance of the dream.

grand aspiration

Emphasizes the scale and ambition of the dream, indicating a significant undertaking.

personal quest

Highlights the journey and personal effort involved in pursuing the dream.

FAQs

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

You can use "lifetime dream" to describe a long-held aspiration, such as, "Becoming a doctor was her "lifetime dream", and she worked tirelessly to achieve it."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "lifetime dream"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "lifelong ambition", "ultimate goal", or "dream come true".

Is "lifetime dream" formal or informal?

"Lifetime dream" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language and the specific situation. It's commonly used in news articles, biographies, and personal conversations.

Can "lifetime dream" refer to something negative?

While "lifetime dream" usually refers to a positive aspiration, it can be used to express disappointment if the dream is shattered or unfulfilled, adding a layer of irony or sadness to the statement.