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Pipe Dream

What Does "Pipe Dream" Mean?

homeidiomsPipe Dream
"Pipe dream" is an English idiom. It means "an unrealistic or impractical idea, goal, or plan that is unlikely to be realized; often used to describe fantasies or aspirations that lack feasibility."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "pipe dream" used in a sentence:
  • Becoming a famous actor was his pipe dream since childhood, but he eventually pursued a more practical career.
  • While space travel remains a fascinating pipe dream for many, significant progress has been made in the field of aerospace.
  • Some dismissed her idea as a pipe dream, but she turned it into a successful business.
meaning for pipe dream

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Pipe Dream" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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