The phrase "like dream" is often used to describe something that seems too perfect or too good to be true. In phonetic transcription, it can be written as /laɪk drim/. The word "like" is pronounced with the /aɪ/ diphthong, which represents the sound combination of /a/ and /ɪ/. The word "dream" is pronounced with a long /i:/ sound followed by the /m/ consonant. Together, these sounds create a soothing and dreamy effect that perfectly suits the meaning of the phrase.
Like a dream refers to something that appears or feels like a dream, often conveying a sense of ethereal beauty, surrealism, or enchantment. It evokes imagery associated with the world of dreams, where reality may be distorted or transformed, and where one experiences extraordinary sensations, emotions, or events.
Used as an adjective, "like a dream" describes an experience or situation that feels unreal, mesmerizing, or perfect in a way that resembles a dream. It suggests a sense of wonder, as if transported into an imaginary realm or a state of blissful tranquility. This phrase is often used to describe visuals, such as a landscape or a person's appearance, that exhibit a magical or otherworldly quality.
Furthermore, "like a dream" can also convey the idea of something occurring easily, effortlessly, or flawlessly. It can imply a smooth and seamless progression without any obstacles or challenges. This sense of ease is akin to gliding through a dream, where everything happens with fluidity and without resistance.
Overall, the term "like a dream" encapsulates the extraordinary, captivating, and sometimes inexplicable qualities of dreams, projecting them onto various aspects of reality to emphasize their enchantment, beauty, or extraordinary nature.
The etymology of the word "like dream" can be traced back to the Old English word "swefn", which meant "dream". Over time, the word "swefn" evolved into various forms in different languages. In Middle English, it became "dreem" or "dreme", still referring to a dream. The word "like" comes from the Old English word "gelīc", meaning "similar" or "alike". When combined, "like dream" essentially means "similar to a dream" or "resembling a dream".