to dream on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to dream on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to suggest that someone should continue dreaming or to imply that their hopes or aspirations are unrealistic. Example: "If you think you'll get a promotion without putting in the effort, you can just dream on."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

If you want to dream on, go for an original production.

Forbes

I would rather not sell any copies of my 2010 live album Keep Hold Of The Gold and upcoming album Dare To Dream on iTunes, and have no-one watch my Channel 4 Comedy Blaps online, than go on about them in a bid to shift some merchandise.

The Guardian

She'll have to dream on.

Independent

You tell her to dream on.

The New York Times

It's good to have someone to dream on.

The New York Times

Poisson encouraged her precious Reinette (Queenie) to dream on.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

"Dream on!" they shouted.

BBC

To which one is tempted to reply: "Dream on".

Independent

She wants to dream again, and on some days insists she's strong.

The New York Times - Arts

More than that, your ability to dream and act on your dreams becomes painfully difficult.

Huffington Post

Well, Mr. Steele, all I have to say is dream on.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to dream on" when you want to gently imply that someone's aspirations are unrealistic or unlikely to be achieved. It's less harsh than directly dismissing their hopes.

Common error

Avoid using "to dream on" in contexts where you're simply referring to the act of dreaming during sleep. The phrase carries a connotation of wishful thinking, so ensure the context aligns with that meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to dream on" functions as an idiomatic expression, often used as an interjection or a response to indicate disbelief or skepticism towards someone's hopes or expectations. As Ludwig points out, it suggests that their aspirations are unlikely to materialize.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the expression "to dream on" is a common idiom used to gently express skepticism about someone's aspirations. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable, but it should be used with caution to avoid sounding dismissive. It is primarily found in news and media contexts. Alternatives like "keep dreaming" or "wishful thinking" can provide similar meaning. Use it wisely, and don't confuse it with literal dreaming!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keep dreaming

This alternative conveys the idea of continuing to have unrealistic hopes or fantasies, similar to the original phrase.

wishful thinking

This alternative highlights the tendency to believe what one wishes to be true, even if it's improbable.

dream away

This alternative suggests losing oneself in pleasant fantasies, a slightly more positive spin on the phrase.

fantasize about

This alternative directly refers to creating mental images and scenarios, often with a focus on desires or aspirations.

indulge in fantasy

This alternative emphasizes the act of allowing oneself to enjoy imaginative scenarios, highlighting the element of escapism.

harbor illusions

This alternative focuses on maintaining false or unrealistic beliefs, often about oneself or the future.

live in a dream world

This alternative suggests a detachment from reality, focusing on the creation of an idealized mental space.

imagine vividly

This alternative concentrates on the act of forming detailed and realistic mental images, though not necessarily implying unreality.

build castles in the air

This alternative idiom describes creating elaborate plans or hopes that are unlikely to materialize.

chase rainbows

This alternative idiom signifies pursuing something unattainable or illusory.

FAQs

What does the expression "to dream on" mean?

The expression "to dream on" is used to tell someone that their plans or ideas are unrealistic and unlikely to happen. It's a polite way of saying that they should "keep dreaming" if they think something will occur.

How can I use "to dream on" in a sentence?

You can use "to dream on" when you want to express that someone's expectations are not grounded in reality. For example, "If you think you'll win the lottery without buying a ticket, you can "dream away"."

What are some similar expressions to "to dream on"?

Similar expressions include "keep dreaming", "wishful thinking", "build castles in the air", and "chase rainbows". These all suggest unrealistic or unattainable aspirations.

Is it rude to tell someone "to dream on"?

While not overtly offensive, telling someone "to dream on" can be perceived as dismissive or condescending, especially if their dreams are important to them. Consider using the expression with caution and tact.