sort of dream

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sort of dream" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a dream that is not fully formed or is somewhat vague in nature. Example: "Last night, I had a sort of dream about flying over a beautiful landscape, but I can't remember all the details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

"A sort of dream.

The New Yorker

"I sort of dream about it.

The New Yorker

"He's living a sort of dream life".

The New York Times - Sports

What they experienced was just a sort of dream.

Independent

Chasing that sort of dream is, in its own way, hard work.

The New York Times

But audiophiles are restless; they always have some sort of dream system in their heads.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

I have been staying mostly at my friend Lota's country place in Petrópolis, about 40 miles from Rio, and it is a sort of dream-combination of plant & animal life.

The New Yorker

Sometimes she asked herself if Simon had the same sort of dreams that she had.

The New Yorker

"There's a lot of 'Who does she think she is, gettin' above her raisin'?' where I grew up that discourages that sort of dreaming," she said.

The New Yorker

He said, "She creates a fantastical version of the East that doesn't exist in the East, a sort of dreamed image".

The New Yorker

Everyone just sort of dreams that the economy will pick up and everything will work out.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sort of dream" to describe experiences or aspirations that are not fully defined or are somewhat intangible. It's suitable when precision isn't crucial, and you want to convey a general sense of aspiration or unreality.

Common error

While acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound vague or lacking in precision. In formal contexts, opt for more specific terms like "aspiration", "vision", or "goal" to convey your intended meaning with greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sort of dream" functions as a modifier to describe the nature of the dream, indicating it is not fully formed, somewhat vague, or exists more as an aspiration than a concrete plan. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sort of dream" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe an aspiration or goal that is somewhat vague or not fully realized. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. While generally acceptable in various contexts, it's advisable to use more precise terms in formal writing to enhance clarity. Common contexts include News & Media. Consider alternatives like "dreamlike scenario" or "fantasy realm" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey. Use "sort of dream" to add color and a less formal tone to your written language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dreamlike scenario

Focuses on the resemblance to a dream rather than the dream itself.

daydream quality

Emphasizes the imaginative and unreal nature, similar to a daydream.

fantasy realm

Suggests a world created by imagination, moving further from a personal dream.

ethereal vision

Emphasizes the delicate and otherworldly nature, often spiritual or artistic.

pipe dream

Implies an unattainable or unrealistic hope, adding a negative connotation.

wishful thinking

Focuses on the desire for something to be true, regardless of its likelihood.

visionary concept

Highlights the innovative and imaginative aspect, often related to future possibilities.

romantic notion

Highlights an idealized or sentimental perspective, often unrealistic.

utopian ideal

Refers to a perfect or ideal society, differing from individual dreams.

delusional fantasy

Suggests an unrealistic and potentially harmful belief.

FAQs

How can I use "sort of dream" in a sentence?

You can use "sort of dream" to describe an experience or goal that is somewhat vague or not fully realized. For example, "Becoming a professional musician is a "sort of dream" I've had since I was a child."

What phrases are similar to "sort of dream"?

Similar phrases include "dreamlike scenario", "daydream quality", or "fantasy realm". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "sort of dream" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "sort of dream" might be perceived as informal. In formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives like "aspiration", "vision", or "ideal" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "sort of dream" and "pipe dream"?

"Sort of dream" is a neutral description of an aspiration. "Pipe dream" implies that the aspiration is unrealistic or unattainable. The choice depends on whether you believe the dream is achievable or not.