pipe dream

USAGE SUMMARY

"pipe dream" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to an improbable or fanciful hope. For example, "Her plan to become a professional dancer was just a pipe dream."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Pipe dream.

The New York Times

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

Or just a pipe dream?

The Washington Post

Is this a pipe dream?

The New York Times - Books

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

But it's a pipe dream.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pipe dream", ensure that the context clearly establishes the unrealistic or unattainable nature of the plan or idea. It adds emphasis to the impracticality of the aspiration.

Common error

Avoid using "pipe dream" for plans that are simply challenging but potentially achievable. The phrase implies a near impossibility, not just a difficult task.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pipe dream" functions as a noun, typically used as a predicate nominative or object of a preposition. It characterizes something as an unrealistic or unattainable aspiration. As Ludwig AI explains, it refers to plans that are unlikely to work.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pipe dream" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an unrealistic or unattainable goal. According to Ludwig AI, it is suitable for diverse registers, primarily appearing in news and media contexts, conveying skepticism about the feasibility of particular ambitions. The expert rating confirms its reliability and clear application. When employing this phrase, ensure the context justifies the strong implication of impossibility, differentiating it from mere challenges. Remember that, as Ludwig's examples highlight, it is a powerful way to express doubt about the realization of ambitious plans.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unrealistic aspiration

Focuses on the impracticality of the goal, emphasizing its disconnect from reality.

unattainable goal

Highlights the impossibility of reaching the desired outcome.

far-fetched idea

Suggests the idea is unlikely and strains credibility.

impractical scheme

Emphasizes that the plan is not feasible or workable in practice.

fantasy

Implies the idea exists purely in imagination and lacks grounding in reality.

illusory hope

Indicates that the hope is deceptive and misleading, likely to lead to disappointment.

fool's errand

Suggests the pursuit is pointless and destined to fail.

castle in the sky

Evokes an image of something beautiful but impossible to build or achieve.

pie in the sky

Similar to "castle in the sky", representing a future benefit that is unlikely to materialize.

quixotic endeavor

Characterizes the undertaking as idealistic to the point of being impractical or foolish.

FAQs

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

Use "pipe dream" to describe a plan, desire, or idea that is very unlikely to succeed. For example: "His ambition to become a famous actor was just a "pipe dream"".

What are some alternatives to saying "pipe dream"?

You can use alternatives like "unrealistic aspiration", "unattainable goal", or "far-fetched idea" depending on the context.

Is "pipe dream" a formal or informal expression?

"Pipe dream" is generally considered an informal expression suitable for everyday conversation and writing, but it can also appear in news media. It might not be appropriate for highly formal or academic contexts.

What's the origin of the phrase "pipe dream"?

The phrase "pipe dream" originated in the late 19th century, referring to the visions and fantasies experienced by opium smokers. Over time, it evolved to describe any unrealistic or fanciful hope.